British entrepreneur Gary Ashworth has shared his opinions on some of the world's most exclusive holiday destinations, classifying several as past their prime and no longer favored by the ultra-wealthy.
Ashworth, a 66-year-old business coach who has amassed a fortune of over $100 million, detailed his assessments in recent Instagram videos, drawing on decades of experience with high-end resorts and private clubs.
He characterized Mykonos, a popular Greek island, as 'D tier,' stating its peak was a decade ago. Santorini, another Greek island, received a harsher critique, with Ashworth claiming it has been ruined by widespread photo-taking. "The wealthy left years ago. They just forgot to tell Instagram," he remarked.
Tulum in Mexico was also placed in the 'D tier,' described as "past its sell-by date." The Maldives, often considered a luxury getaway, was dismissed as a "honeymoon factory," with Ashworth noting it costs "three grand-a-night to sit in the sea and wave at strangers' drones."
Other destinations that did not impress Ashworth include Marbella, which he associated with "footballers, finance lads and an awful lot of watches that nobody's finished paying for." Ibiza was deemed a "stag do with water around it" after DJs began charging high fees, and Bali was ranked lowest, with Ashworth stating that high-net-worth individuals have moved on from the Indonesian island.
Las Vegas and St. Tropez also received critical assessments. Ashworth described Sin City as a has-been for wealthy travelers, and while he acknowledged St. Tropez still delivers, he felt its allure is fading.
However, Ashworth highlighted several destinations that still meet his criteria for exclusivity. He favors Europe's upscale alpine ski resorts like Courchevel and Verbier, calling the latter a "classic" spot for "old money." The Caribbean destination of St. Barths received his highest praise, noted for allowing the world's richest people to "just disappear."
Other favored locations include Mustique, a private island favored by the British royals, and The Hamptons in the United States, which Ashworth believes will always remain a well-heeled retreat. Porto Cervo in Sardinia also earned his approval, as it hosts "half of Europe's old money" during the summer without ostentation.
