Decided to rub shoulders with the right sort for once? You might want to look into membership of one of these elite clubs – ceremonial robes sold separately.
Exclusive member-only clubs around the world are more than just social venues; they are symbols of status, hubs of influence, and sanctuaries of luxury. While the allure of such clubs is often their privacy and exclusivity, understanding the cost of entry provides a glimpse into the world of the elite.
READ: Audi Has Created Your New E-Mountain Bike
The Core Club – New York City, USA
At the heart of Manhattan, The Core Club is not just a testament to luxury but a meeting ground for the creative and influential. Beyond its opulent amenities, the club offers a dynamic cultural calendar, making it a vibrant ecosystem for networking and innovation. The club also has branches in Milan and San Francisco. Membership Cost: Initiation fees are rumoured to be around US$50,000, with annual dues of approximately US$17,000.
READ: Time to Pop-up & Drink Up
The Carnegie Club – Scotland, UK
Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle offers an escape into a world of traditional luxury and serene landscapes. This club is where history meets exclusivity, providing members with an array of activities set against the backdrop of a historic castle. Membership Cost: Joining fees are estimated at £25,000 (US$30,000), with annual dues near £8,000 (US$9,800).
The Cercle de Lorraine – Brussels, Belgium
As a beacon of exclusivity in Brussels, Cercle de Lorraine caters to Belgium’s elite, offering a sophisticated environment for networking and socialising. The club is renowned for its elegant dining, cultural events, and an atmosphere that fosters professional growth. Membership Cost: The initiation fee is around €2,000 (US$2140), with annual dues of approximately €1,500 (US$1605).
The Capital Club – Dubai, UAE
In Dubai’s bustling financial district, The Capital Club serves as an exclusive haven for business leaders and influencers. With luxurious amenities and a focus on professional networking, the club epitomises the intersection of business and luxury in the Middle East. Membership Cost: Membership initiation fees can reach up to AED 50,000 (US$13,600), with annual fees of around AED 12,000 (US$3,270).
Tanglin Club – Singapore
One of the oldest private member’s clubs in Asia, Tanglin was founded back in 1865 and is said to boast 4,000 members from 120 countries. Members, who have to wait up to 15 years for admission (which comes via invitation only and ballot) have access to seven restaurants and bars, including the famed Churchill Room with its old-world charm and acclaimed culinary team, as well as a large outdoor pool, a fitness centre, squash courts, a billiards room, and 27 sumptuous suites. You’ll also have access to 130 other clubs around the world. Membership Cost: Membership initiation fees can reach up to US$100,000 with annual fees around US$1,000 and a monthly subscription of US$100.
READ: Taming the Green-Eyed Monster
The Hong Kong Club – Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Club, known locally as The Club and founded in 1846, delivers six floors of leisure, food, beverage, and meeting facilities. This Central icon features a little something for every discerning member (which are said to be around 1,500), from squash courts and a billiards room to a bowling alley, a library, a barbershop and two restaurants – one serving Chinese cuisine and the other Western. The club keeps its membership fees a close secret, so price on application.
READ: Kavalan Gets a Little Woody
The Dracula Club – Switzerland
The infamous, Alpine-chic members-only Dracula Club (in the Kulm Hotel) is a legendary destination. In the daylight, it’s home to the St. Moritz Bobsleigh Club (the original ghost riders) and at night transforms into the iconic Dracula, a members-only enclave, now overseen by Gunter’s son, Rolf Sachs.
Known for hosting the most exclusive parties in one of Switzerland’s most exclusive alpine playgrounds, access to this intimate and indulgent club is only granted by accompanying a life member. This iconic nightclub is also famed for hosting “the highest jazz festival in Europe”, with the annual Festival da Jazz. If you’re not already an original life member, there’s no chance of joining.
For more Society stories click here
LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? FOLLOW ALPHA MEN ASIA ON FACEBOOK, OR INSTAGRAM AND SUBSCRIBE TO OUR HONG KONG-CENTRIC NEWSLETTER HERE
