Many movie theaters are looking for new ways to enhance the theater experience after a mediocre year at the domestic box office. But a focus on attention to detail and the overall experience beyond just the theater screen is something that the world's most luxurious theaters have strived for from the beginning.

With newly placed technology that extends beyond the theater screen and into the seating itself, movie theaters offer a range of innovations on the age-old theater-going experience.

Beyond upgrades to the projectors themselves, the most dominant trend in the evolution of modern movie theaters is the ability to order food and drinks from the comfort of your seat. But some theaters have innovated upon that concept even further — Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas installs buttons on every seat allowing you to silently call over staff when you're ready to order, for example.

There's even a theater in London that gives every moviegoer a tray filled with various mystery boxes, each designed to be opened and enjoyed at specific points in the movie, containing one-bite treats and mini cocktails that connect to various elements or scenes. Others, like the Alamo Draft House, offer the luxury of not having to worry about disruptive guests, with a zero tolerance policy on talking that's actively enforced by kicking out obnoxious guests. In India, one theater pumps a floral scent through the air conditioning.

With theaters competing for the best luxury amenities, moviegoers have more options than ever to choose from.

Here are the 1o most luxurious theaters in the world:

SEE ALSO: 19 movies you need to see this holiday season

Edible Cinema in London, England

Every guest at an Edible Cinema screening is given a tray filled with numbered "mystery boxes," each containing either a bite-sized morsel, or a mini cocktail that connect to specific moments in whatever film is being screened.

Rajmandir Cinema in Jaipur, India

The Rajmandir is one of the most beautiful theaters in the world. The lobby of the Rajmandir is adorned with chandeliers, custom-made wooden tiles, and glass inlay.

And to further enhance every guest's experience at the Rajmandir, the air is scented with a floral aroma that is pumped through the air conditioning. 

Nitehawk Cinema in Brooklyn, NY

At Nitehawk Cinema, guests can order unique and delicious cocktails, dinner, and snacks (including the signature truffle oil popcorn) while they catch the latest indie flick of their choice.

• The Chelsea estate agent who sold his Porsche for just £20 last year is now raffling off his Jaguar for the same price.
• There are 2,250 tickets available, and the winner will be chosen through a live Instagram draw.
• However, this time they'll also have to play a game of "Where's Wally" to bag the car.

A Chelsea estate agent made headlines in August when he decided to raffle off his Porsche Cayman for just £20 a ticket.

Ed Bezzant, who shares photos of his extravagant London lifestyle full of expensive cars, clothes, watches, travels, and parties as @edbezzant on Instagram, came up with the raffle as a way to make some extra cash.

By selling 2,500 tickets, he would have made £50,000, more than the recommended retail price of a brand new 718 Cayman (£42,897), the latest edition of the car.

And he certainly came close, selling 2,296 tickets and making enough money to plan what he called his fiancée's "perfect wedding."

Now, he's at it again — but this time it's his Jaguar that's up for grabs.

Bezzant told Business Insider that the car — a 64 plate White Jag F Type which has driven 22,000 miles — has "all the trimmings to go with it," including a panoramic roof, a sat nav, and a "black back for grills and vents."

New versions of the latest model can sell for more than £50,000.

There are 2,250 tickets available, and the winner will once again be chosen from a box of names live on Instagram.

"A lovely girl called Chloe Issacs won the car [last time]," Bezzant told Business Insider, adding that he'll hand deliver the car to the winner if they live in the UK.

SEE ALSO: A Chelsea estate agent is selling his Porsche for £20 — but there's a catch

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NOW WATCH: Why caviar is so expensive

• Whether you struggle financially, or live comfortably, comes down to your average monthly cost of living. 
• Rent prices in Mexico are 300% lower than in the U.S., compared to India where they are 475% lower.
• By moving to a place such as Columbia your quality of life can improve, as living costs are cheap and luxuries such as taxis or restaurants are inexpensive. 

There are many reasons why you might be thinking about taking the plunge, uprooting your life, and moving abroad. Perhaps you're looking to find an exotic retirement paradise where you can make the most of no longer having to spend so much of your time going to work. It could be that you're moving for work or education reasons. Or maybe you're just looking for a new and exciting experience in an unfamiliar country.

Regardless of your reasons, cost will probably be a central factor in where you decide to end up. Your choice of destination could mean the difference between living in luxury and scraping pennies together to make ends meet. If you're on the lookout for somewhere cheap to call home, here are four countries where you can live for $1,000 per month.

All costs are based on information gathered from Numbeo, the world's largest database of user contributed data about cities and countries worldwide.

SEE ALSO: 3 people share why they regret buying their homes

Mexico

There are many reasons that Mexico is one of the most popular destinations for Americans to move to. It's nearby and convenient to travel to, the weather in much of the country is temperate year-round, and the cuisine is so delicious it's been exported all over the globe. Mexico is also extremely diverse, with its mixture of vast cities, popular beach resorts, and rural villages catering to all tastes. On top of this, it's far cheaper to live in than the U.S.

Rent prices are a major reason for the difference in the cost of living. They are on average more than 300 percent lower than in the U.S., with the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically coming in at around $272. You can expect basic utilities and internet services to cost under $60 per month combined.

Food costs are also low, with fresh produce prices from local markets being far lower than in the U.S. You'll even be able to afford to eat out regularly, as a meal at an inexpensive restaurant will total less than $5.

Transportation costs are low no matter where you are in the country, with one-way tickets on local transportation averaging 42 cents. Taxi flag fare is about $1.60, plus you'll pay around 77 cents per mile after that. Also, health care is generally half or less than what you'd expect to pay in the United States.

Thailand

Southeast Asia is a well sought after destination for those on the lookout for something exotic, and Thailand is probably the most favored country in the region. Expats tend to head to either the large cities with great infrastructure like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, or the tropical islands with their white sand beaches and laid-back lifestyle.

One of the most attractive things about living in Thailand is just how affordable it is, regardless of where in the country you choose to settle. Rent is significantly cheaper, costing 124 percent less than in the U.S. on average. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around $453 per month. Utilities and internet for your apartment will total around $92 a month.

Thai food is some of the most celebrated in the world, and you'll be happy to hear that it's also extremely inexpensive. Street food is a huge part of the culture, so much so that many Thai homes don't have a kitchen. You can eat out for just a couple of dollars per meal, and even midrange restaurants are unlikely to cost you more than $10 per head.

Transportation is cheap, too. A one-way journey on local transportation will set you back around 83 cents, and tuk tuks or taxis are also an affordable option, costing $1.09 to get started and around 60 cents per mile thereafter. 

India

India isn't necessarily the first place that would spring to many people's minds when it comes to expat destinations. However, it's got a booming economy and a large number of English speakers, which helps to break down any potential language barriers. If the subcontinent immediately conjures up images of the chaotic streets of New Delhi, it's worth noting that the country also has stunning mountain scenery, laid-back beach towns, and tranquil hill stations.

Rent prices are some of the cheapest in the world, coming in at nearly 475 percent lower than the U.S., with a one-bedroom city center apartment averaging $174. Because prices are so low, it's easy to upgrade to more luxurious lodgings if you choose without breaking the bank. Either way, around $50 will be enough to cover your monthly utilities and internet bills.

The food in India is some of the most flavorful in the world, and it's also unbelievably cheap. Inexpensive meals will cost you little more than $2, and a meal at a midrange restaurant will be under $5, so you'll be able to eat out a lot if you choose to.

Getting around is affordable, too. A one-way fare on local transportation will cost around 30 cents, and taxi flag fare is 78 cents, with each additional mile costing about 33 cents. 

• Rolls Royce is showing four cars at the Geneva Motor Show, including three custom Phantoms from the Bespoke division and the Dawn Aero Cowling.
• The bespoke cars have features like one-of-a-kind art pieces and custom paint colors to complement the exteriors.
• Each Rolls Royce was tailored to the requests of the patrons and reflect the history of the company. 

Rolls Royce revealed three distinct Bespoke Phantoms and a Dawn Aero Cowling at the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland earlier this week. 

Each custom car was commissioned by Rolls Royce patrons and have unique features like custom paint covers, hand-polished veneers, and one-of-a-kind art displays in the Gallery on the dashboard. They were inspired by the history of Rolls Royce, like the 1930s Phantom II Continental Saloons and Charles Sykes’ original drawings for the Spirit of Ecstasy, the iconic ornament on Rolls Royce cars. 

Take a look at the incredible Rolls Royce Bespoke designs: 

SEE ALSO: The 7 most extravagant car interiors in the world

The first of the three phantoms, The Gentleman's Tourer, is inspired by the Phantom II Continental Saloons of the 1930s.

The gunmetal gray paint color is inspired by high performance aircrafts and was designed specifically for this car.

The interior was designed for long, luxurious drives. The Spirit of Ecstasy is embossed in each door panel, and showcases a modern, minimalist design.

• The Plaza in New York is one of the most famous and luxurious hotels in the world.
• We stayed at The Plaza Hotel recently to see if it still lives up to the hype.
• While the regal charm and luxury of the hotel is undeniable, it could use some tweaks for the modern age, including free wireless internet and better in-room entertainment.

It is no exaggeration to say that The Plaza in Midtown Manhattan is New York's most iconic hotel. When it was opened in 1907, newspapers reportedly declared it "the greatest hotel in the world."

Since, it has played host to New York's ultra wealthy, from the scions of the Vanderbilt and Kennedy families to American artists and socialites F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. Ambassadors, princesses, and actors and actresses have all called The Plaza home at one point or another.

It first became etched in the American cultural imagination in Fitzgerald's seminal novel "The Great Gatsby" and since has been featured in countless films, television shows, and literature. More recently, it was featured in "Home Alone 2: Lost In New York" and "American Hustle."

President Donald Trump once owned the hotel for a time, purchasing it in 1988 for $390 million —around $807 million in 2017 dollars.

In an open letter to New York Magazine, he famously declared, "I haven't purchased a building, I have purchased a masterpiece – the Mona Lisa. For the first time in my life, I have knowingly made a deal that was not economic – for I can never justify the price I paid, no matter how successful the Plaza becomes."

The hotel has passed through many owners throughout its 100+ year history. We stayed at the hotel recently to see if it still retains the regal charm for which it has always we been known.

SEE ALSO: New York City's famed Plaza Hotel is once again looking for a buyer — here's why it's so legendary

The Plaza Hotel is located in midtown Manhattan at the southeast end of Central Park, near Grand Army Plaza. The location is unbeatable for that classic ritzy uptown feel.

The Plaza Hotel was built by financier Bernhard Beinecke, hotelier Fred Sterry, and Harry S. Black and opened in 1907. It actually replaced a 15-year-old hotel of the same name on the site, which was open from 1890 to around 1905.

Historic Hotels of America

The entrance is wrought in golds, blacks, and whites. This is not the original entrance of the building — that is on Fifth Avenue. In 2008, the hotel reopened after a $400 million renovation that split the building into a 282-room hotel and 152 condominiums.

No one likes a bargain like Brian Kelly, a prolific air-mile collector and the CEO of thepointsguy.com — at least when it comes to first-class flights.

Kelly, who used to work in HR at Morgan Stanley, has turned his side hustle and passion for flying premium into a revenue-generating lifestyle brand that has become a mecca for anyone trying to get their head around how to start collecting air miles.

Now he spends most of his time, or at least two weeks a month, flying around the world in some of the fanciest first-class cabins, virtually for free.

Business Insider caught up with Kelly to hear about his journey from a Morgan Stanley cubicle to becoming a macro-travel influencer.

Scroll down for a look at how he did it.

Meet 34-year-old Brian Kelly, aka The Points Guy. He left his job in HR at Morgan Stanley in 2011 to build his air-miles blog.

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Now he spends at least two weeks a month flying around the world in some of the fanciest first-class cabins — virtually free.

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Feats include Hong Kong to San Francisco with Singapore Airline for 92,000 Singapore Krisflyer miles and $78 (£59) ...

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For luxury yachts, money is no object. Oftentimes, the constraints of design reality aren't an issue either. Want your superyacht shaped like a giant canoe? No problem. Want 260 sqm of glass on board? Consider it done.

Here, we wave eight of the most outlandish, progressive and future-seeking contemporary yacht designs, for your cruising pleasure.

From designs by Achille Salvagni to Rosetti, hop aboard the superyachts that really float our boat...

SEE ALSO: Lexus just unveiled a gorgeous yacht concept that's perfect for tech tycoons

Tuhura by Oceanco

Named after the Maori word for ‘discovery’, Tuhura is a substantial concept design with a radically different approach to hull design.

Commissioned by Oceanco, the 115m proposal resembles a colossal canoe, with curvaceous light coloured hull paired with a dark gloss superstructure and a wraparound single-level deck.

The canoe-style design approach was allegedly inspired by traditional Maori vessels, and the entire boat pays homage to that culture’s long, long history of ocean exploration.

... The sleek exterior was created by superyacht specialists Lobanov Design, while Achille Salvagni Designs have overseen the proposed interior. Throughout the generous open-plan spaces, Salvagni has used natural materials like tatami and teak floors, pairing them with bronze and gunmetal to create a warm, decidedly unsynthetic look. 

www.lobanovdesign.com / www.achillesalvagni.com / www.oceancoyacht.com.

Project Bolide by Tankoa.

Designed by Tankoa in collaboration with the Italian studio Exclusiva Design, Progetto Bolide is an experimental approach to materials.

In particular, the Italian shipyard used the design study to explore new ways of working with glass – there’s some 260 sq m of the stuff onboard, ranging from the curved glass balustrades that encircle the decks, through to the great swathes of windows that run along the side of the boat, giving it a dramatic structural profile.

www.exclusivadesign.com / www.tankoa.it

• Many superyachts cost upwards of $200 million dollars and are owned by the wealthiest billionaires in the world.
• The most expensive yacht ever built is made from solid gold, and costs a whopping $4.8 billion.
• The yachts have features like movie theaters, concert halls, and multiple swimming pools. 

Some of the world's wealthiest individuals own the most outlandish yachts. 

With features like helipads, swimming pools, saunas, hot tubs, and more, the most expensive yachts in the world are the definition of luxury. Russian tycoons, oil Sheikhs, and entertainment moguls are vacationing on yachts spanning over 200 feet that often cost over half a billion dollars, not to mention the maintenance costs of owning a superyacht.

Check out some of the most expensive yachts in the world below: 

SEE ALSO: Take a rare look inside 8 of the most luxurious superyachts for sale at Miami's premier yacht show

$200 million: Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen owns this 414-foot yacht called the Octopus. It has 41 suites, a pool, two helicopters, a basketball court, and a recording studio.

Source: Forbes

$200 million: The Seven Seas yacht has a movie theater, infinity pool, gym and helipad. Reportedly, it once belonged to Stephen Spielberg.

Source: Forbes

$210 million: Billionaire Nassar Al-Rashid owns this yacht embellished with 24-karat gold lettering.

• We bought a fake Rolex watch online for £50.
• Watch expert Joe McKenzie told us what look out for when buying a Rolex.
• He gave us three simple ways you can check if your Rolex is real or not. 

Business Insider spoke with Joe McKenzie, CEO & co-founder of luxury retailer Xupes, about how to reveal if a Rolex watch is fake or not.

We bought a fake online for £50 and asked McKenzie to compare our Rolex to an authentic piece.

McKenzie said that looking for serial numbers on the case, checking for the brand logos on the buckle of the watch, and looking if the watch hand is "sweeping" and not "ticking,"  are the most obvious giveaways if the watch is fake. 

Produced by David Ibekwe. Special Thanks to Shona Ghosh

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• The world's richest people always travel in style. 
• From private jets and yachts to custom excursions, vacations for the super rich are perfectly planned.
• One travel company, Abercrombie & Kent, shared the itinerary for a 25-day, 6-continent tour that costs $150,000. 

For many of us, glacier hiking in Patagonia, whale watching in Australia, and stargazing in Easter Island are merely pipe dreams. 

For the mega-rich, that's all accomplished in one month of the year. 

Those in the upper echelon of wealth value travel like the rest of us, except their experiences are vastly different. Instead of reading travel blogs, consulting hot travel lists, and scouring the internet for cheap airfare deals, the mega-rich often outsource their vacation planning to luxury travel agencies.

Abercrombie & Kent is one such company. The travel and concierge service transports guests on its fleet of private jets and chartered mega-yachts with the exclusivity and five-star treatment millionaires are so accustomed. 

Its portfolio of luxury family tours ranges widely, including trips such as origami and kimono dressing lessons in Japan, riding in a tuk-tuk through a Tanzanian village, gladiator combat lessons in Rome, and kayaking among the giant tortoises in the Galápagos Islands.

But one of Abercrombie & Kent's must luxurious experiences is Around the World, a 25-day journey through 7 countries and 6 continents for $150,000 per person. 

Below, a closer look at the Around the World itinerary — how the mega-rich travel the world. 

SEE ALSO: Billionaires' vacation perks range from Ferrari-driving lessons to after-hours tours away from the crowds — here's what it's really like to travel while rich

DON'T MISS: Meet the kids of the world's richest billionaire business moguls

Day 1: Miami

The trip begins in Miami, where travelers mix and mingle during the first night. They stay at the Four Seasons, and enjoy the fitness centers and on-site restaurants. The global adventure begins in the morning. 

Days 2 - 4: Nicaragua

Board a private jet and depart the US for Nicaragua. 

Guests arrive at the luxurious Mukul Resort and Spa, situated on the country's Emerald Coast.  There's no shortage of adventurous and exhilarating activities in Nicaragua. Explore the cloud forest on foot and from up above on a zip line. Or, there's the option to sport fish, take in a round of golf, or pedal around on a bicycle. 

The ultra-rich can also imbibe the country's finest rums and try their hands at cigar rolling. 

Days 5 - 7: Chile

Arrive in the Southern Hemisphere via private jet and board the adventure vessel 'Skorpios III.' 

One of the best ways to explore the pre-historic Patagonian fjords, glaciers, and rocky crags is by water. The region is rich with wildlife so it's not uncommon to spot dolphins, grey foxes, Patagonian puma, or Andean condors. An expert glaciologist is on hand to lead glacier climbing tours for the ultra rich as well.

• Embraer's Manhattan Airship private jet concept evokes the style and beauty of New York City.
• Designers drew inspiration from the art deco designs of the 1920s and 1930s.
• Embraer has also released concepts inspired by the Far East, Hollywood, and even Brazilian Ranchers.
• The Brazilian jet maker used its flagship Lineage 1000E executive jet as the canvas for the design concept.
• The total cost of the Manhattan Airship is $83 million and includes the $53 million for the Lineage 1000E. 

For many, a high-end private jet is a point of personal expression. While all jet makers allow for extreme amounts of customization, Embraer Executive Jets takes it a bit further than everyone else.

The Brazillian firm has become famous over the past few years for its stunning and highly imaginative interior design concepts like the Japanese inspired Kyoto Airship and its ground-breaking skylights. Then there's the Brazilian Rancher-meets-Texas-oil-tycoon themed the Skyranch One. 

Last year, we wrote about Embraer's Hollywood Airship which bathes its occupants in the Art Deco glamour and elegance of tinsel town. 

As a sister design to the Hollywood, Embraer interior design boss Jay Beever and former Disney Imagineer Eddie Sotto teamed up to create the Manhattan Airship concept. 

"The Manhattan, featuring deep, rich woods, is the embodiment of the Empire State Building crossed with the Rainbow Room," the company said in a press statement. 

For Beever and Sotto, the "thrill of resurrecting the art deco designs found in the buildings, furniture, jewelry, cars and ocean liners of the 1920’s and 1930’s, with the Normandie cruise liner provided specific inspiration to the project.

Because of the highly bespoke nature of the business, Embraer's customers can choose to adopt the whole package or simply a few select elements of the concept.

Here's a closer look at Embraer's Lineage 1000E Manhattan Airship interior design concept:

SEE ALSO: The 8 most luxurious private jets in the world

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The Manhattan Airship interior is designed for Embraer's flagship Lineage 1000E executive jet. The 1000E has room for 13 to 19 passengers, with a range of nearly 5,300 miles. It's based on the company's E190 airliner

Like the standard Lineage 1000E, the Manhattan Airship is divided into various zones. However, unlike the standard Lineage, all of the crew facilities like the galley have been moved to the back of the plane.

So when you step on board the Manhattan Airship, instead of being greeted by the galley, the first thing you see is a luxury lounge complete with a relief of the Manhattan skyline.

• The Rolls-Royce introduced an all-new eighth generation Phantom for 2018.
• The new Rolls-Royce flagship is powered by a 563 horsepower, twin-turbo V12.
• It starts at $450,000 while our extended wheelbase test car carried a price tag of nearly $644,000.
• The Phantom is fully-customizable and loaded with cool tech and luxury features.

Over the years, Rolls-Royce has become a byword for automotive opulence. As the pinnacle of roadgoing luxury, the Phantom is Rolls-Royce's long-serving flagship. For the first time in 15 years, there's an all-new generation Phantom. In fact, it's the eighth generation in the nameplate that dates back to 1925.

Recently, Business Insider was able to spend an afternoon with the all-new Phantom, including about an hour behind the wheel of the behemoth.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom will be available in two body styles, the stand wheelbase and the extended wheelbase which adds eight extra inches in length. In case you're wondering, the extended wheelbase Phantom is 19.5 feet long.

Under the hood is a new 563 horsepower, 6.75 liter, twin-turbocharged V12 engine. According to Rolls, our extra-long Phantom can hit 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds. The standard Phantom is about 0.2 seconds faster. Both versions have a top speed of 155 mph.

We were impressed by the new Phantom driving dynamics thanks to its new four-wheel-steering system. It's not exactly nimble, but far more fleet of foot than you would expect from a vehicle of its size. However, the real place to be is in the back where you can stretch out and get a feel for the serenity and smoothness of its passenger experience. It's what Rolls-Royce calls the "magic carpet ride."

The standard wheelbase Phantom starts at about $450,000. But our test car is an extended wheelbase model that is eight inches longer than the standard Phantom and starts at $530,000. With bespoke optional extras, our black-and-emerald-green Roller costs nearly $644,000.

Here's a closer look at the coolest tech and luxury features on the Rolls-Royce Phantom:

SEE ALSO: We drove the all-new $630,000 Rolls-Royce Phantom to see the future of automotive opulence — here's what it was like

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We have the chance to experience the Phantom on the streets of New York City.

Behind the wheel, the first thing you notice is the heads-up display and a digital instrument cluster designed to mimic old-school Rolls-Royce analog gauges. The driver also has access to adaptive cruise control, collision warning, pedestrian warning as well as lane departure and lane change warning.

In the center console is a 10.25-inch high definition display running a version of BMW Group's iDrive infotainment system. It serves as a display for the Phantom's elaborate system of cameras.

• I have only ever flown coach for 32 years.
• But I'm pregnant and needed to take a red-eye flight for a business trip to Germany, so I decided to drop $829 on a last-minute upgrade from coach to business class.
• It's definitely the best flying experience I've ever had, although I wouldn't say it lived up to the hype. 

As a New Jersey resident who flies a few times a year for work, mainly in and out of the Newark airport, I am subjected to many United Airlines flights.

For 32 years, I've always flown coach. I can never justify spending a few thousand dollars extra for fleeting comfort.

But every time I roll my suitcase past the business passengers to my seat in the back of the plane, I stare longingly.

They look so happy, curled up in their cushy chairs, sipping champagne and scotch, surrounded by fluffy bedding. They know they will de-board better rested and with fewer neck cramps than the rest of us.

Finally, I had an opportunity to peek behind the blue, class-dividing curtain. 

I had to take a business trip to Germany. But I'm pregnant, and for $829 I could upgrade from coach and guarantee a seat in United's Polaris business class for my red-eye flight.

It was about $100 extra an hour. So I said, "Screw it!" and treated myself.  

Off I went, on a nonstop flight from Newark to Berlin, swaddled in Saks Fifth Avenue bedding and a 180-degree reclining bed.

Here's what it was like to finally fly business class after 32 years in coach:

I fly a fair amount, so I'm a United gold premier member. That might mean more on another airline, but on United, it basically means you get a free checked bag and economy-plus seating (which means slightly more legroom). Now, I had my upgrade. I was ready to finally get pampered and my hopes were high.

The scene at Newark's United counter was picturesque. No lines. Just super special me, waddling up with my two carry-on bags, almost giddy for my red-eye flight. I used a mobile boarding pass, so I zipped past the counter and straight to security.

If there's a special Polaris line for security, I didn't find it. I have TSA Pre-Check and just stuck with that. The line was sort of long but it moved quickly, and I was through security in under 15 minutes.

• 26-year-old Aileen Gilani quit her law degree to launch The Luxury Student.
• It's a digital private members club and concierge service targeted at wealthy students and bloggers living in London.
• Packages start at £20 a month and go up to £400 for a Platinum package.
• There's no application form and anyone can apply.
• The only request she has is that members love the luxury industry — and that they post about the service on Instagram.

Even when she was a student, 26-year-old Aileen Gilani spent money in a different way to her peers.

"So many times students were partying and going to clubs and I was getting a blow dry," she told Business Insider.

Gilani originally studied International Hospitality Management at Oxford Brookes University for four years. During her time there, she completed a placement working next to the concierge at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square.

Soon after graduating, she went into a post-graduate degree in law and was surrounded by "a lot of wealthy international students."

"I wouldn't say I was a wealthy student, but I did love the luxury industry," she said. "I did understand why other students would spend that much on a Chanel bag."

Having realised she had a creative edge, half way through her degree she launched a blog called The Luxury Student, catering to this world of youngsters.

"I realised there was so much potential in creating a career out of it as well," she said. "I was quite curious to see how that would work."

Through LinkedIn, she found a mentor in entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir Eric Peacock.

"After a couple of meetings here and there, he thought I had something interesting, exciting and different," she said. "He said, stop what you're doing now with law education, and focus on this."

She felt like she was already a few steps behind in the blogging world, where the successful bloggers have millions of followers.

So instead, she built a blogger platform.

"I had about 20 different bloggers — from [the likes of Kuwait and Australia] — who I found on Instagram," she said.

"I realised there was a boom in the blogger community, [and it was] the perfect type of market research."

Targeting wealthy students and bloggers

The 20 bloggers writing for her platform were all students, and she realised there was a market for wealthy students who can afford a luxury lifestyle.

"Or if they can't afford it they'll save money and choose to spend it on something more luxurious," she said.

Inspired by her brief experience working with the hotel concierge, she quit her law degree and spent most of 2017 transforming her blog, then relaunched it in September as a digital private members club and concierge service.

"There wasn't really a concierge service out there that catered to the luxury student or blogger," she said. "Both are such brilliant target markets."

Now, The Luxury Student has around 500 members, according to Gilani, and a number of membership choices.

The two main ones are standard, which is £50 a month, and events only, which is £20 a month.

"What I call the standard lifestyle membership has everything involved," Gilani said. "We say the minute you wake up to the minute you go back to bed we want to make sure you have a good lifestyle."

Every new member receives a Nespresso machine, thanks to a partnership with the brand.

Members have access to a PA/virtual assistant service...

...and they get invitations to in-store events.

They have access to exclusive clubs like Albert's Club in South Kensington, as well as priority booking and drinks deals at restaurants like Quaglinos in Mayfair.

Members also get to use Urbanologie, an invitation-only luxury lifestyle app for high net worth individuals...

...and through The Luxury Student's partnership with Quintessentially Travel they can make travel arrangements — a service that would normally be for Quintessentially members only and would cost £100, according to Gilani.

"Even towards late evening there's the concierge service for night clubs, booking tables, [and] passes to different night clubs around London," she added.

The less popular events-only membership, meanwhile, gives members the opportunity to go to monthly social drinks and in-store event but without the services listed above.

Michelin-starred meals and members' club access

There's also the lesser-known Platinum membership, which comes in a whopping £400 a month.

"It's very bespoke, we tailor it to the individual," she said. One feature for a Premium member so far has been full access to the South Kensington Club, which has its own spa and gym. For someone more into art, it has included an annual membership to the V&A.

It also apparently comes with a complimentary Michelin-starred meal for two every month.

"We rarely promote it becuase it’s even more niche than what we already have," Gilani said.

She added that with each package, there are new offers and partnerships every month.

The company is currently exploring fitness discount options with the likes of Barry's Bootcamp and yoga studios, and has also partnered with the trendy Salon 64 in Soho to give all members a complimentary blow dry or cut on their birthday.

"Our special offer for May is a complimentary blogger photoshoot, which is very trendy, very current," Gilani added.

"Many of the students that are members are trying to become professional bloggers."

She added that the site has organically attracted influencers and bloggers — and that despite the name, you don't have to be a student to join.

"We've opened it up," she said. "It was originally targeted to students, [but it's] also open to bloggers who are part-time or recently graduated.

"We don’t have any application form," she added. "We don’t want to intimidate [people] before they sign up."

Once a member registers, they are asked to create a profile answering questions about things like where they dine, where they travel, and where they shop.

All the company asked is that if you join, you truly appreciate the luxury industry.

"Whether you like to purchase products and services or you want to have a career in the industry, [you need] a genuine reason to join," she said.

"We don’t actually target anyone specific, we just want people to enjoy the industry."

Creating content for Instagram

The one other ask is that members have open Instagram accounts so they can share what they’re up to with their followers, tagging The Luxury Student all the while.

"Everyone has their own motive for using our membership, [but we] try to make it fun and Instagram-friendly," she said. "It gives people another way of creating content."

And some members certainly think outside the box.

While one impossible request involved writing an essay or dissertation on behalf of a member — "we will not be involved in any form of plagiarism," Gilani said — more extravagant demands have included getting members free private jet seats or a signed designer handbag.

"We try to make it clear what you have complimentary," she added. "We don't give people free holidays or free private jet seats."

Currently, Gilani is running the business solo alongside a PR agency, partners, and brand ambassadors at universities across London.

"It’s a very small team but it’s worked well that way," she said.

"We try to make it not so painful to enjoy the luxury lifestyle — we still want it to be accessible."

SEE ALSO: 12 things 5-star hotels don't want you to know

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• John Paul is a luxury concierge service that is available 24/7 to its millionaire and billionaire clients.
• While most requests are for hard-to-get tickets or restaurant tables, the service has also handled numerous extravagant requests.
• One of the most extravagant requests was for a client who asked to watch the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious races in the world, from a vantage point "no one else could get."
• John Paul arranged for the client to watch the race from a yacht and get an audience with Prince Albert II of Monaco.

As a luxury concierge service to ultra-wealthy people around the world, John Paul has seen some strange and extravagant requests.

The net-worth of the company's clients usually stretches from $30 million to $260 million, with a few that go even higher. Their clientele is well-traveled and educated. Once you've traveled to every island hotspot and stayed in private villas, it takes something extra to get a "wow" from clients.

In recent years, according to Amber Treshnell, John Paul's CEO of Americas, the company has helped fly in a client's favorite lasagna from Venice for a Christmas Eve celebration, arranged a visit with Santa in the Arctic Circle for a client's children, and help craft a wedding proposal dinner in Dubai at At.mosphere, the tallest restaurant in the world.

"We are constantly challenged with finding things that are not searchable on the internet. These are people who have traveled the world, been to many exciting destinations, and they want the next best thing,"  a concierge at John Paul for last 11 years told Business Insider.

"No is not an option. So long as it is legal and ethical, we can do it."

The concierge, who John Paul asked to keep his name confidential out of respect for his privacy, helped work on possibly the most extravagant request the company has ever fulfilled, which came during the Monaco Grand Prix, considered one of the most prestigious Formula One races in the world.

The client wanted to attend the Grand Prix, but was not satisfied with viewing it from the perfect balcony, according to the concierge. He wanted "something nobody else can get."

The concierge helped arrange for the client to watch the race from an ultra-luxury yacht. Not only that, but the concierges were able to get the client an audience with Prince Albert II of Monaco.

"Our client was over the moon when we presented this idea. He could never have done that himself. But, with our connections, we were able to make it happen," he said.

Providing that experience, according to the concierge, was "ultra, ultra expensive" and required 24/7 work to make happen.

"The logistics are quite layered and detailed," he said. "Of course, first there is a moment of panic. How do we take this client request and make it happen? You work backwards and make the steps."

Concierges, according to John Paul, see their value in their connections and network. When a request like the Monaco Grand Prix comes in, the concierge said he begins by combing his Rolodex for "someone who knows someone who knows someone." If his connections come up empty, he will contact concierges at other John Paul offices so they can tap into their networks.

Once they have a connection that can make the experience happen, the team puts everything through several layers of vetting. With millionaire and billionaire clients, there is always the risk that someone is trying to steal clients' money. John Paul prides itself on its vetting abilities.

"We don't want to put our clients in danger because they are coming to us as the authority on providing them with access that is unquestionably honest and straightforward," he said. "We don't want them to worry about that access."

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• Travel experts shared their tips and tricks for scoring lesser-known freebies, upgrades, and general special treatment while staying at a hotel.
• Always check in late, let them know you'll be reviewing your stay, and look for the "secret pillow menu," they say. 

Staying in a nice hotel is a rare luxury for most of us, meaning that you'll want to make the most of it when you do.

With this in mind, travel experts at Hotels.com have shared some tips and tricks for scoring lesser-known freebies or upgrades that'll make your stay that little bit more luxurious.

So the next time you're at a hotel, as well as being polite and friendly to the front desk staff of course, you might want to try a couple of the following tactics. 

1. Check in as late as possible.

"If you check in late, then there is a chance that the hotel might have run out of standard rooms, which is generally the room category the everyday traveler books, so an upgrade to a higher room category could be on the cards," according to the Hotels.com experts.

2. Let them know you'll be reviewing your stay.

"Guest reviews and social media exposure are so important to hotels these days," the site added. "At check-in tell them you’ll be writing a review and that you follow them on Instagram and will be tagging and snapping the hotel at every opportunity."

3. Ask about breakfast deals.

"If your room package doesn’t include breakfast, always ask at check in if there are any special deals for the on-site restaurant, especially for breakfast. You could land yourself large discounts on food, an invite to guests-only happy hours, or special 2-for-1 deals."

4. Request fancy freebies.

"Hotel freebies have had a serious upgrade over the past few years. Forget soap in the shower; you can often enjoy designer toiletries, including body lotion, face masks, and beauty utensils.

"Other items to watch out for are exotic teas and snacks, slippers, high-end magazines, stationery, and some hotels even have items for day usage such as portable WiFi units, umbrellas, and bikes."

5. Find the "secret pillow menus."

"A menu in your room might not just be for room service or laundry. Many hotels these days want to offer travelers the luxuries of home, so pillow menus are the new norm," Hotels.com said.

"If you are prone to neck and back pains, ask about pillow options. The front desk usually has a huge selection from super firm to melty marshmallow."

SEE ALSO: 11 of the most incredible places in the world that are best reached by private jet

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• The Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort in the Cook Islands is for sale.
• This slice of paradise comes at a cost, though, and is on the market for $23 million (£17 million).
• The luxury resort comes with 36 bungalows, restaurants, bars, pools, and a gym.
• There are 45 years left on the lease.
  

The Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort in the Cook Islands is on the market — and if you have $23 million to spare, it looks pretty stunning.

The 27-acre private island resort — which claims to be a popular tourist and honeymoon spot— comes with 36 bungalows, a spa, air conditioned gym, swimming pool, water sports hut, restaurants and bars, and a gift shop, according to the listing on Coffeys Tourism Property Brokers. 

The resort is a two-minute ride by a small private ferry from the main island of Aitutaki, according to Booking.com. Aitutaki island is a 45-minute flight from the neighbouring island of Rarotonga.

Naturally, this slice of paradise comes at a cost. It's on sale for $32,290,000 (NZD), equivalent to around $23 million or £17 million, plus Cook Islands government taxes if applicable.

Take a tour of the island below:

14 of the resort's 36 bungalows are beachfront, with nine "premium" beachfront, seven overwater, five "deluxe" beachfront, and one "royal honeymoon" pool villa.

They look pretty luxurious inside. Below, one room features a four-poster bed with white drapes, which offsets the polished wooden finish of the floor, furniture, and shutters.

Some of the thatched beachfront bungalows offer pretty nice-looking views of the Aitutaki lagoon. You can download the full prospectus here.

The bathroom pictured below features his and hers sinks and is decorated with local Polynesian flowers and shells.

On top of the bungalows, you'll find a swimming pool, two restaurants and bars, a spa, an air conditioned gym, a water sports hut, and a gift shop.

The sale of the South Pacific resort comes with a 60-year lease that began in 2003, so it has 45 years left. It's renewable upon agreement with the landowner, the listing says.

It's worth mentioning that there are restrictions on foreign ownership, so, should you have a spare $23 million in the bank, you're advised to seek advice from local counsel before making any rash decisions.

But it does look like paradise.

SEE ALSO: The 19 coolest places for a European holiday in 2018, according to travel experts

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So, Prince Harry is officially off the market — but don't despair. There are still plenty of eligible young princes out there to steal your hearts.

One such bachelor is Prince Constantine-Alexios of Greece and Denmark or 'Tino' to his friends. Alexios is 19-years-old and currently enrolled in Georgetown University in Washington D.C.

Since the Greek monarchy was abolished in 1973, Alexios' role is titular only. He does, however, know how to live like a royal.

On Instagram, he's garnered almost 100,000 followers who keep up with his lavish lifestyle — featuring luxury holidays, impressive artwork and hunting exploits.

Despite being born in New York, Alexios was raised in England when his family relocated and attended Wellington College in Berkshire.

Scroll down for a look into the life of one of the world's most eligible bachelors.

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Meet 19-year-old Prince Constantine-Alexios of Greece, born in New York City, 29 October 1998.

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Alexios' family are close to the British royals. Here the newborn prince is with his godfather Prince William.

16-year-old Prince William attended the christening of his new godson at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sophia in London in 1999.

Prince Alexios' grandfather, King Constantine, is a close friend and second cousin of Prince Charles — he is also Prince William's godfather.

Despite being born in New York, Alexios was raised in England and attended Wellington College in Berkshire. Here he is graduating with his friends...

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Once you're making a steady income — and hopefully putting some money aside, too — buying everything off the high street or shopping only in the sale loses its appeal.

No matter how long it takes to save for them, there are some items you should splurge on so they last you for life — and some may even grow in value, making them a good investment for the future.

We asked four people living luxurious lifestyles — including the Head Personal Shopper at Matches Fashion, the CEO of Joanne Beckham's concierge company, and the head of VIP at Heathrow Airport — for the items everyone should invest in in their lifetime.

Scroll down to see what they said:

SEE ALSO: Heathrow has a secret £3,300 VIP service used by world leaders and A-list celebrities — here's what it offers

An investment watch— around £5,000.

Helen Ridge, Leasing Director at Value Retail — owner of the luxurious Bicester Village shopping areas around the world — said an investment watch is a must. Her pick? "A Cartier yellow gold vintage Tank watch that I was given for my 40th," she said. The watch now retails from around £5,000.

Jay Smith, CEO of WeAreYourCity, a concierge company by Joanne Beckham, agreed — but he'd opt for the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 with a navy dial, which will cost you at least £32,000.

"This is the holy grail of stainless steel sports watches, one of the most sought after timepieces in the world," Smith said. "Waiting lists are five to 10 years long or more and some authorised dealers have even closed their lists. A solid long term investment which can be enjoyed everyday."

A tailored suit — around £3,000.

"When you walk into a business meeting, I believe your suit and presentation plays an important role in how you are viewed," Smith said. "I always say it is better to be over-dressed than to feel under-dressed. First impressions count and a well tailored suit will make a difference." Prices range depending on the designer, but on Savile Row, you'll pay at least £3,000.

A high-quality chunky knit — around £300.

Ridge added that everyone needs a high-quality jumper, such as "a Bamford chunky knit from Bicester Village, which is perfect for cold country walks." Similar designs retail for around £300.

London's private members' circuit has come a long way since the days of the stuffy gentleman's club.

The capital now boasts one of the most diverse selections of clubs in the world.

While areas such as Mayfair and Pall Mall are still synonymous with the members' club scene, an explosion of more accessible, affordable, and trendier clubs have shaken things up.

Whether you are looking for a wellbeing sanctuary, to indulge in the world of fine wine, art, and live performance, or just somewhere with cool rooms where cool-looking people hang out, each club has its very own niche, making it even trickier to pick the right one.

We've rounded up a selection of London's most exclusive private members' clubs, which cost between £150 to over £5,000 — or the cost of a new car — for an annual membership.

Scroll down for a sneak peek inside some of London's best clubs, ranked in ascending order by the price of a standard annual membership and joining fee.

Disrepute, Soho — £150.

Disrepute, a "hidden gem" nestled within an opulent Soho basement, offers a carefully curated cocktail menu and an atmospheric space perfect for secret late-night sessions. It is one of the most reasonably priced members' bars in London.

Membership privileges include priority reservations, the ability to book in parties of up to 12 people, and free access to special events, talks, and masterclasses.

The club says it is a members' bar not in the conventional sense, and that applications are welcome from people of all backgrounds and persuasions. Non-members are also welcome to book a table, subject to availability.

You can apply for membership here.

Quo Vadis, Soho — £500, plus £150 joining fee.

Quo Vadis, easily recognisable by its iconic neon street sign, is another of Soho's members' haunts. The club consists of a first floor bar and lounge, and a dedicated members' restaurant, which serves quintessentially British cuisine. The second floor is home to the "Blue Room," an intimate, atmospheric lounge with open plan bar and first-rate sound system.

It is popular among Soho’s creatives, foodies, and more generally seekers of relaxed business and serious pleasures.

Under 30s benefit from a discounted yearly rate of £300. The club doesn't have a blanket policy for membership and says it instead looks at case by case applications, accepting people without airs and graces who are interesting and happy to be themselves.

Prospective members can apply online here.

L'escargot, Soho — £450, plus £250 joining fee.

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Set in a Georgian townhouse in the heart of Soho above London's oldest French restaurant L'escargot, the chic Upstairs Club is accessed via a psychedelic carpeted spiral staircase.

It's a secretive hideout away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. There is an air of eccentricity to the club which offers its members access to a series of private rooms, including the salon noir, salon bleu, and salon rouge, which regularly host performances and general debauchery.

Under 28s can obtain a reduced membership of £250. If you don't have a proposer, you may be asked to visit the club and meet with one of the membership team for a drink and a brief introduction.

To apply, hopefuls should submit a personal profile online here.