Recognized Luxury Travel Leaders 2025

With 25 years in the travel industry across Europe, I have recently started my own business as a travel consultant. Leveraging my experiences as a tour guide in France, Norway and the Benelux, as well as resort work in other countries, I now help plan itineraries for independent travelers to Europe,

Julian de Graaf is the co-founder of Elite Rentals Dubai, overseeing a fleet of high-end cars and yachts, including Dubai's exclusive Lamborghini Yacht. Since 2019, Julian and his partner Kristan have expanded their collection to more than 90 luxury vehicles and vessels. Julian is also known for transforming Dubai’s luxury real estate, flipping mansions into record-setting properties. Julian’s vision and dedication fuel the success of his luxury ventures.

Kristan de Graaf is the founder of Elite Rentals Dubai, known for its luxury cars and yachts, including Dubai’s only Lamborghini Yacht. He was named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30. Since 2019, Kristan and his brother Julian have built a fleet of 90+ luxury cars and yachts. Kristan also flips Dubai mansions, turning them into top-selling homes. Kristan’s work sets new standards in luxury.

As a seasoned finance professional and entrepreneur, I offer a unique perspective that blends rigorous financial analysis with real-world business experience. My career spans various roles in higher education finance, entrepreneurship, and corporate settings, giving me a comprehensive view of today's economic landscape. My expertise allows me to provide insights on a wide range of topics, including budget planning, financial forecasting, entrepreneurship, and the challenges facing modern universities. I can offer data-driven analysis on financial trends, as well as practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, as a local business owner and community member, I can speak to the economic climate and lifestyle of the Bay Area, particularly Marin County. Whether you're looking for expert commentary on financial matters, insights into the world of startups, or a local perspective on Bay Area living, I'm ready to provide clear, informed, and engaging responses to support your reporting.

I'm an experienced marketing leader with 13 years of proven success in the healthcare, e-commerce, and travel & hospitality industries. Currently, I'm serving as the Director of Consumer Marketing at RedAwning, the industry's leading short-term rental (STR) management company. With a unique hospitality platform, RedAwning leverages technology and AI to help STR owners and managers increase visibility and generate more revenue. Travelers benefit from a seamless travel experience through booking directly on RedAwning.com where they can access 20K+ vacation homes, condos, villas, and more.

Grace O. is the founder of ALGStudioStore, ALGelysianFlamesCo, and an upcoming Imperial Lola and a lifestyle blogger at Bitsstylejourneyblog— three brands rooted in luxurious self-care, wellness, and timeless fashion. With a Master’s in Health Informatics and a deep love for creativity, Grace curates personalized spa gift boxes, eco-conscious candles, and vintage-inspired accessories. Through thoughtful designs and sustainable practices, she helps people embrace beauty, calm, and confidence in their daily lives.

Experienced entrepreneur in the automotive and energy sectors. Founder and owner of BLS Car Rental, a leading car rental service operating in Ukraine and Slovakia. Also, the owner of TOKA, a growing network of EV charging stations. Passionate about business expansion, franchise development, and sustainable mobility solutions.

Lon Welsh, founder of Ironton Capital, brings over two decades of experience in real estate and consulting. Previously a strategic consultant with Deloitte and Arthur Andersen (Accenture), he went on to build Your Castle Real Estate, managing over 700 Realtors and $2.5 billion in transactions in 2022 alone. At Ironton Capital, his mission is to provide busy professionals with passive, diversified real estate investments to help them grow their wealth and secure a stable financial future. With a focus on high-quality, investment-grade properties, Ironton Capital allows accredited investors to build wealth without the time commitment of managing their own rentals. Lon’s extensive experience, from authoring multiple real estate books to helping create numerous millionaires, drives the firm’s commitment to making a meaningful impact in both investors' lives and communities.

Hi, Nazir here! I’m an SEO Specialist at Elite Rentals Dubai. I love helping businesses improve their websites and make money online. Feel free to reach out if you’re looking for advice or SEO services!