The luxury skies

Ryan and Malaka Hilton, founders of Sarasota-based Admiral Travel International, have a reputation as a go-to source for a luxury African safari.

But amazing as these trips are, Ryan Hilton says it's long irked him that many times the air travel part of the trip doesn't match the high-end parts on the ground.

Not anymore. The Hiltons have partnered with one of the newest luxury private charters on the market, the Crystal Skye. The plane is a Boeing 777 that's been transformed into a five-star resort in the air. It includes handcrafted, fully reclining flatbed seats, a dedicated stand-up bar and social lounge and a team of Crystal Skye Butlers. There's also an executive chef on board to prepare Michelin star-inspired cuisine. “They show a complete dedication to the luxury experience,” says Ryan Hilton.