Shrinking global boundaries have given life to an international buyer who is willing to pamper himself with premium property and expensive holiday destinations anywhere around the globe.

International real estate consultants Knight Frank (KF) has shrunk the world into 26 major cities for this growing breed of international spenders with emphasis on disparities, which exist in the way properties are bought and sold world over.

The study focuses on the lifestyles of executives examining the cost of buying or renting homes in the most favoured locations and important "must have" features. Caribbean Islands of Bahamas and Bermuda still retain their reputation of being a tax-haven dotted by pristine beaches and uncorrupted natural beauty, ensuring its popularity at the top of any "most desirable" wish list, according to the survey. If you are the kind who believes in work hard and play hard, ruthless New York is the best bet.

Locations like Manhattan and Long Island in New York remain in the super league and trendy city dwellers favour loft style apartments with open plan design. For weekends, destinations such as Hamptons and Cape Cod provide a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Property trends in the fashion capital, Paris, continues to experience buoyant conditions with prices increasing as demand levels remain strong. The trend is expected to to continue with prices increasing as demand levels remain strong.

Low interest rates could position Sydney as an attractive destination. The KF survey reveals: "Sydney central business district and inner city areas remain popular and apartments in these locations command premium prices. The watchwords here are convenience, views and private leisure facilities Penthouses with the right mixture of ingredients can command upwards of Australian $1 million." Singapore still retains its position as one of the most expensive places to live. Lower interest rates, attractive prices, pent-up demand, and an active stock market has revived the residential market. Property transactions take about three months to be complete in Singapore.

Tokyo is the city which has no restrictions on purchases, but a stamp duty of 45,000 yen is required on acquisitions between 50 million and 100 million yen. Fixed mortgage rates as low as 2.15 per cent are available through the major lenders such as Daiwa, Tokyo, Mitsubishi and Sumitomo. And if you are already a world weary traveller and want the best in amchi Mumbai, head straight for Malabar Hill and Carmicheal Road, says the survey.