Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city and former capital, has emerged as a premier luxury travel destination in Central Asia. Nestled at the foot of the snow-capped Tien Shan Mountains, this vibrant metropolis seamlessly blends cosmopolitan sophistication with natural splendor, attracting discerning travelers from around the world.
The city’s exceptional 5-star hotels set themselves apart through their world-class service standards, prime locations, and comprehensive amenities. Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating wellness retreat, a romantic getaway, or a high-powered business hub, Almaty’s luxury hospitality scene delivers unforgettable experiences. This comprehensive guide presents the definitive resource for finding your perfect stay, complete with expert insights, pricing transparency, guest reviews, and insider recommendations tailored to your travel style.
Why Choose a Luxury Hotel in Almaty?
Premium Services and Hospitality Standards
Almaty’s five-star hotels are internationally acclaimed for their exceptional service. Every property featured here maintains rigorous standards of hospitality excellence, with multilingual staff trained to anticipate guest needs. From personalized concierge services to round-the-clock room service, these hotels deliver the white-glove treatment luxury travelers expect.
Central Locations and Accessibility
Unlike many Central Asian cities, Almaty’s luxury hotels are strategically positioned in the heart of the city’s business and cultural districts. This means direct access to the Central State Museum, Zenkov Cathedral, and fine dining establishments, all while remaining just minutes from mountain attractions like Kok-Tobe Hill and the Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Exclusive Amenities and Experiences
Five-star hotels in Almaty offer far more than comfortable beds. World-class spa facilities featuring Turkish hammams, thermal pools, and holistic wellness programs create sanctuaries for rejuvenation. Multiple fine dining restaurants celebrate both international cuisine and authentic Kazakh flavors. State-of-the-art fitness centers, indoor pools, and business facilities cater to every conceivable guest need.
Comparison with Mid-Range Accommodations
Mid-range hotels in Almaty typically charge $75–$130 per night but lack the comprehensive amenities, prime locations, and service excellence of luxury properties. Five-star hotels, averaging $200–$300 nightly, provide exceptional value when you consider the included breakfast, complimentary fitness facilities, premium bedding, and concierge services. For business travelers and those celebrating special occasions, the investment in luxury accommodations significantly enhances the overall experience.
Top 5-Star Hotels in Almaty
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty
Overview & Distinctive Features
The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty stands as Central Asia’s most prestigious luxury hotel, located within Esentai Tower—the region’s tallest building. This architectural marvel houses only 145 carefully appointed rooms and suites, ensuring an intimate, exclusive atmosphere. The hotel’s check-in desk sits on the 30th floor, creating an immediate wow moment as guests are introduced to panoramic vistas of Almaty’s skyline and the distant Tien Shan peaks.
The interior design masterfully merges contemporary luxury with authentic Central Asian elements. Nomadic cultural artifacts and contemporary artwork create a unique ambiance that celebrates the region’s heritage without sacrificing modern sophistication.
Room Categories & Pricing
Standard Rooms and Junior Suites (starting at $216+ per night)
- Expansive layout with premium bedding
- Panoramic mountain and city views
- Heated marble bathrooms with rainfall showers
- High-speed wireless internet
- 24-hour in-room dining
Grand Suites and Presidential Suites ($450+ per night)
- Separate living and sleeping areas
- Mini-kitchens with premium amenities
- Exclusive Club Lounge access
- Personalized butler service (select suites)
- Priority dining reservations
Signature Amenities and Services
The Ritz-Carlton spa spans multiple floors, offering hydrotherapy treatments, Thai massages, Swedish massage, prenatal massage, and traditional hammam experiences. The full-service facility includes a Turkish bath, steam room, sauna, and heated hot tub. The fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment and personalized training services.
Dining at The Ritz-Carlton is exceptional. Vista Restaurant presents fine international cuisine with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows offering mountain views. Seven Restaurant specializes in seven regional Kazakh cuisines, providing an authentic culinary journey. The Sky Lounge Bar on the 28th floor offers craft cocktails and panoramic city views.
Club Lounge Experience
The exclusive Club Lounge functions as an “elite hotel within the elite hotel,” offering complimentary breakfast, evening cocktails, afternoon tea service, and personalized concierge assistance. Club guests enjoy priority reservations, airport transfers, and late checkout privileges. This complimentary service for Club-level room guests represents exceptional value.
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Rating: 9.6/10 (Excellent) across major platforms
539 verified guest reviews highlight consistently outstanding service
Common praise focuses on:
- Impeccable attention to detail
- Outstanding mountain views
- Exceptional spa facilities
- Professional, anticipatory staff
- Prime central location
- Premium breakfast quality
Best For: Couples seeking a romantic luxury escape, business executives requiring world-class facilities, anniversary and honeymoon celebrations
2. Rixos Almaty
Overview & Unique Features
Rixos Almaty represents a perfect equilibrium between luxury and accessibility, offering premium accommodations in Almaty’s vibrant Almaly District. With 237 thoughtfully designed rooms, the property achieves the rare balance of personal attention and substantial capacity. The hotel’s iconic massive atrium creates an immediately impressive first impression, establishing the tone for an exceptional stay.
The contemporary design aesthetic combines modern elegance with comfortable familiarity, creating an inviting environment rather than intimidating opulence. This approachable luxury philosophy has made Rixos Almaty a favorite among diverse traveler demographics.
Room Categories & Rates
Deluxe Rooms ($100–$150 per night)
- 35–40 square meters
- High-quality linens and premium bedding
- Heated floors for year-round comfort
- Separate bath and shower
- 43-inch smart televisions with international channels
- Spacious private balconies
Junior Suites ($180–$250 per night)
- Separate living and sleeping areas
- Enhanced bathroom amenities
- Priority restaurant seating
Executive Suites ($300+ per night)
- Expansive layouts with premium furnishings
- Whirlpool bathtubs and rainfall showers
- Exclusive executive lounge access
Wellness Facilities & Restaurants
The Rixos Spa represents one of Central Asia’s most comprehensive wellness centers. The 35-meter Olympic-sized pool anchors the facility, complemented by a children’s pool, two saunas, a steam room, and Turkish hammam. Treatment menus include aromatherapy, Ayurvedic therapies, body wraps, couples massage rooms, and specialized packages for various wellness objectives.
Dining Venues:
- Brasserie Restaurant: Expansive buffet breakfast with international selections, à la carte lunch and dinner options
- Pool Bar & Garden Terrace: Casual dining with refreshing beverages
- Multiple coffee shops throughout the property
Insider Tips for Staying at Rixos
Book during shoulder seasons (late April–May or September–early October) for optimal rates without sacrificing weather conditions. The hotel’s prime city location provides quick access to Green Bazaar, making morning market visits feasible before a leisurely breakfast.
Negotiate spa packages when booking directly; the hotel frequently includes complimentary wellness credits for multi-night stays. Request higher floors facing the garden courtyard for serene views rather than street noise.
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Rating: 8.8/10 (Excellent)
1,029 verified reviews across multiple platforms
Frequently praised attributes:
- Exceptional value for comprehensive luxury
- Outstanding spa facilities
- Attentive, multilingual staff
- Excellent breakfast quality
- Prime city-center location
- Reliable service consistency
Best For: Families seeking all-inclusive luxury, wellness-focused travelers, couples valuing both relaxation and city accessibility
3. Swissôtel Wellness Resort Alatau
Wellness and Spa Focus
Swissôtel Wellness Resort Alatau represents specialized luxury designed explicitly for health-conscious travelers and wellness enthusiasts. Positioned on an expansive 54-hectare forest property on Almaty’s peaceful outskirts, this resort emphasizes holistic rejuvenation over urban accessibility.
The property’s defining distinction is the Purovel Spa, complemented by on-site medical facilities, professional nutrition consultants, and comprehensive fitness programming. Unlike standard hotel spas offering occasional treatments, Swissôtel operates an integrated wellness ecosystem designed for transformative stays.
Room Types & Wellness Packages
Standard Wellness Rooms ($120–$180 per night)
- Modern accommodations with nature views
- Included access to all spa and fitness facilities
- Wellness-focused minibar options
Wellness Suites ($250–$350 per night)
- Premium accommodations with enhanced spa access
- Personalized wellness consultations
- Dietary guidance coordination
Wellness Retreat Packages (3–7 days, $1,200–$3,500 total)
- Accommodation included
- Daily spa treatments
- Fitness classes and yoga sessions
- Nutritionist consultations
- Customized wellness programming
Facilities and Nearby Attractions
The resort encompasses two pools (indoor thermal mineral water and outdoor seasonal), a fully equipped fitness center offering yoga and specialized fitness classes, and an 18-hole golf course located 3 kilometers away. The thermal mineral water pools feature therapeutic properties valued in traditional Central Asian wellness practices.
Accessibility to Attractions:
- 20 kilometers to Medeo High-Altitude Sports Complex
- 30 kilometers to Big Almaty Lake (turquoise alpine lake at 2,511 meters)
- 32 kilometers to Butakovsky Waterfall
- 31 kilometers to Almaty International Airport
Dining Philosophy
The resort features multiple restaurants emphasizing health-conscious cuisine. The Mediterranean Restaurant combines Aegean flavors with wellness principles. The Wellness Restaurant specializes in vegan, vegetarian, and raw food options, with nutritionists developing customized meal plans. The Moxie Bar offers sophisticated cocktails and light bites in contemporary surroundings.
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Rating: 8.4/10 (Very Good)
Guests consistently highlight:
- Exceptional wellness programming
- Peaceful forest setting
- Professional spa staff
- High-quality dining
- Comprehensive medical facilities
- Tranquil atmosphere conducive to relaxation
Best For: Health-conscious travelers, wellness retreat seekers, individuals recovering from stress or requiring medical wellness programs, nature-loving luxury travelers
4. InterContinental Almaty
Modern Luxury & Location
InterContinental Almaty exemplifies contemporary luxury positioned directly in Almaty’s cultural and administrative heart. This 277-room property balances business functionality with leisure comfort, making it equally suitable for corporate conferences and family vacations.
Located at 181 Zheltoksan Street, the hotel sits mere minutes from the Kazakhstan Independence Monument, National Museum of Kazakhstan, and Zenkov Cathedral—positioning guests for convenient cultural exploration.
Room Types & Business Amenities
Deluxe Rooms ($150–$200 per night)
- 45 square meters with contemporary design
- Garden or mountain views
- High-speed internet connectivity
- 26-inch LCD televisions
Suites ($250–$350 per night)
- Separate living and sleeping areas
- Premium bedding and furnishings
- Enhanced bathroom amenities
Conference Facilities:
- 11,840 square feet of meeting space
- 5 distinct meeting rooms equipped with modern technology
- Newly renovated Grand Ballroom accommodating 500 guests
- Rooftop Belvedere Grill for private events
Dining & Entertainment
Ankara Spa features comprehensive wellness services including aromatherapy, thalassotherapy, and professional massage treatments. Multiple pools (indoor and children’s), Turkish bath, sauna, and full fitness facilities provide complete recreation options.
Dining Venues:
- Asian Cafe: Extensive international buffet with Asian specializations
- Bosphorus Turkish Restaurant: Authentic Turkish cuisine
- J Bar: Evening entertainment with specially invited musicians and craft cocktails
Family & Business Appeal
The hotel specifically caters to families through a dedicated children’s pool, supervised playground, kids’ meals menu, and family-friendly activities. Business travelers appreciate the business center, efficient laundry services, and express check-out options. Multi-purpose facilities effortlessly transition from business conferences to family celebrations.
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Rating: 8.8/10 (Excellent)
Frequently cited positive aspects:
- Excellent central location
- Family-friendly amenities
- Professional staff
- Quality dining options
- Comprehensive spa services
- Reliable infrastructure
Best For: Business travelers requiring conference facilities, families valuing cultural accessibility, travelers desiring urban convenience, those combining business and leisure travel
5. Royal Tulip Almaty & Other Notable Options
Royal Tulip Almaty
Location: Dostyk Avenue (administrative and cultural district)
Rooms: 165 (155 deluxe + 10 luxury suites)
Rating: Good value option with 4.8/10 rating for overall experience
Distinctive Amenities:
- Aquarius Wellness Club: Multi-level spa and fitness complex featuring round pools, jacuzzis, separate gender-specific relaxation zones, saunas, Turkish baths, and professional massage services
- Fine Dining Options: Royal Café (international buffet breakfast), Lobby Lounge Bar (pastries and desserts 24/7), Wine Gallery (100+ international selections)
- Event Facilities: Grand Ballroom (2,500 square meters), supporting multiple function styles
Pricing: Starting at approximately $150–$200 per night
Best For: Guests prioritizing value-for-money luxury, families, those seeking established mid-tier luxury hotels
Rahat Palace Hotel
Location: Bostandyk District
Rooms: 190 rooms with updated amenities
Rating: 8.6/10 across platforms
Amenities:
- Rahat Health Club: Full-service spa with massages, body treatments, and hydrotherapy
- Indoor Pool: Climate-controlled with sun loungers
- Dining: 3 restaurants serving international and Kazakh cuisine
- Family-Friendly: Dedicated children’s playground and game areas
Pricing: Starting at approximately $110–$180 per night
Best For: Families, budget-conscious luxury travelers, those requiring poolside recreation
Dostyk Hotel
Another prominent five-star option offering reliable comfort and amenities, known for professional service and convenient location.
Comparing Almaty’s Luxury Hotels
| Hotel | Best For | Avg. Price | Pool | Spa | Fine Dining | Location | Signature Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ritz-Carlton | Luxury seekers, couples, celebrations | $220–$400+ | ✓ (indoor) | ✓✓✓ (extensive) | ✓✓✓ (Vista, Seven) | Downtown (city center) | Highest building, panoramic views, Club Lounge |
| Rixos | Families, wellness seekers | $100–$250 | ✓✓ (35m Olympic + kids) | ✓✓✓ (Purovel Spa) | ✓✓ (Brasserie) | City center | Massive atrium, 237 rooms, value luxury |
| Swissôtel Alatau | Wellness retreats, health-conscious | $120–$350 | ✓✓ (thermal mineral) | ✓✓✓✓ (medical + spa) | ✓✓ (Mediterranean) | Forest setting, 20km to Medeo | Integrated wellness programs, nature setting |
| InterContinental | Business travelers, families | $150–$300 | ✓✓ (indoor + kids) | ✓✓ (Ankara Spa) | ✓✓ (Asian, Turkish) | City center | Business infrastructure, cultural proximity |
| Royal Tulip | Value luxury, families | $150–$200 | ✓ (Aquarius complex) | ✓✓ | ✓ | Administrative district | Wine Gallery, Ballroom facilities |
| Rahat Palace | Families, budget luxury | $110–$180 | ✓ (indoor) | ✓✓ | ✓ | City periphery | Health Club, family-friendly |
Recommendations by Traveler Type
For Romantic Couples: The Ritz-Carlton’s incomparable views, exceptional spa facilities, and intimate scale create the ideal romantic setting. Book a suite with a club lounge upgrade for complimentary beverages and personalized attention.
For Families: Rixos Almaty or InterContinental Almaty provide comprehensive family amenities, children’s programs, and versatile dining options that keep adults relaxed and children entertained. The expansive facilities ensure age-appropriate activities for all family members.
For Wellness Seekers: Swissôtel Wellness Resort Alatau stands unmatched for integrated wellness programming. Combine spa treatments with professional consultations and forest tranquility for transformative rejuvenation.
For Business Travelers: InterContinental Almaty provides superior conference infrastructure, central location for client meetings, and efficient business services. The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge offers exceptional spaces for business functions and client entertainment.
For Budget-Conscious Luxury Seekers: Rixos Almaty delivers exceptional amenities at accessible prices. Book during shoulder seasons (May or September) for optimal rates without weather compromises.
How to Choose the Perfect Hotel in Almaty
Critical Selection Factors
Location Considerations:
- City Center: Ritz-Carlton, Rixos, InterContinental offer walkable access to cultural attractions, restaurants, and shopping
- Mountain Proximity: Swissôtel Alatau provides serene forest setting but requires transportation for city exploration
- Business District: InterContinental and Ritz-Carlton sit in administrative centers, ideal for meetings
Amenity Priorities:
- Wellness: Prioritize hotels with comprehensive spas, thermal pools, and fitness centers (Swissôtel, Ritz-Carlton, Rixos)
- Dining: Research restaurant options if culinary experiences are important (Ritz-Carlton excels here)
- Family Activities: Verify children’s pools, playgrounds, and kids’ programs
- Business Facilities: Confirm meeting space, high-speed internet, and business center availability
Reviews Assessment:
Read recent reviews (last 3 months) on multiple platforms for current information. Pay special attention to comments about staff attentiveness, cleanliness, and breakfast quality—the true indicators of five-star execution.
Peak Season vs. Off-Season Booking Strategies
Peak Season (June–August): Book 60–90 days in advance for optimal rates. Expect higher prices on weekends and international event dates. Early breakfast service is essential during peak occupancy.
Off-Peak Season (November–March): Book 2–4 weeks ahead for excellent value. Winter temperatures can reach -10°C, but hotels maintain perfect climate control. This period offers superior room availability and attentive service without crowds.
Shoulder Seasons (April–May, September–October): Ideal balance of pleasant weather (10–25°C), favorable rates, and comfortable hiking conditions. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for these attractive windows.
Finding Exclusive Deals
Direct Hotel Contact: Call properties directly for corporate rates, loyalty discounts, and package deals. Hotels often provide loyalty program benefits for booking direct.
Online Travel Agencies: Compare Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com for package deals (room + breakfast + spa credits). Filter by “breakfast included” for better value transparency.
Travel Agent Networks: Specialized travel agents focusing on Central Asian luxury often access negotiated rates and complimentary upgrades.
Early Booking Discounts: Hotels typically offer 10–15% discounts for bookings made 60+ days in advance.
Loyalty Programs: Join hotel chains’ loyalty programs before booking. The Ritz-Carlton Club and InterContinental Elite memberships offer room upgrades, late checkout, and complimentary services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average nightly price for luxury hotels in Almaty?
Five-star hotels in Almaty average $200–$250 per night year-round. Premium suites and exclusive properties like The Ritz-Carlton command $300–$400+ nightly. Budget-conscious luxury options like Rahat Palace offer comparable amenities starting at $110–$180. Book during February (off-season) for optimal value; expect highest prices during April peak season.
Which hotels offer the best spa and wellness facilities?
Exceptional Spa Experiences:
- Ritz-Carlton Almaty: Comprehensive hydrotherapy, Thai massage, Swedish massage, prenatal services, Turkish hammam, steam room, sauna, hot tub
- Rixos Almaty: Purovel Spa featuring aromatherapy, Ayurvedic treatments, body wraps, couples massage rooms, Turkish bath
- Swissôtel Wellness Resort Alatau: Integrated wellness programs with thermal mineral pools, medical consultations, nutrition services, professional spa team
All three offer treatments for specific needs—select based on your wellness priorities.
Are there pet-friendly luxury hotels in Almaty?
Yes. Rixos Almaty explicitly welcomes pets with advance notice. Several other properties accommodate pets upon request and with potential fees. Contact hotels directly to confirm current pet policies and required deposits. Specify pet size and breed when inquiring.
Which hotels are closest to major attractions?
Big Almaty Lake (15 kilometers): InterContinental and Ritz-Carlton provide convenient starting points. Arrange hotel transfers for guided excursions.
Medeo High-Altitude Sports Complex (20–30 kilometers): Swissôtel Alatau offers closest proximity. Other hotels arrange transfers for $15–$30 per person.
Kok-Tobe Hill (Panoramic viewpoint, 8–10 kilometers): All central hotels provide quick access via cable car or private transfers.
Zenkov Cathedral (5 kilometers): InterContinental sits closest for walking tours.
Which hotels provide free airport transfers or concierge services?
Complimentary Airport Transfers:
- Ritz-Carlton: Club Lounge room upgrades include airport transfers
- InterContinental: Surcharge applies; confirm rates when booking
- Rahat Palace: Roundtrip airport shuttle available for surcharge
Concierge Services: All five-star properties provide 24/7 concierge assistance. The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge and InterContinental business lounges offer enhanced concierge support.
Can I arrange tours and activities through my hotel?
Absolutely. Hotel concierge teams arrange guided tours to Big Almaty Lake, Medeo sports complex, Shymbulak ski resort, Charyn Canyon, and cultural attractions. Request arrangements 24–48 hours in advance for optimal selection. Hotels coordinate transportation, guide services, and entrance permits.
What is the best hotel for a business conference?
InterContinental Almaty excels for business functions with 11,840 square feet of meeting space, modern audiovisual infrastructure, and central business district location. The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge provides premium business spaces for executive meetings and client entertainment. Royal Tulip offers impressive facilities at lower rates.
Travel Tips for Staying in Almaty
Local Culture and Etiquette
Kazakh Hospitality: Almaty’s residents embody legendary Central Asian hospitality. When accepting offered tea or coffee, it’s respectful to participate graciously. The traditional greeting involves right hand over heart—a gesture of respect to reciprocate.
Religious Sensitivity: While Almaty is cosmopolitan, approximately 70% of Kazakhstan’s population practices Islam. Respectful dress (covering shoulders and knees) is appropriate in markets and religious sites, though luxury hotels maintain unrestricted dress standards.
Language: Russian is widely spoken alongside Kazakh. Hotel staff speak English, but carrying a translation app facilitates interactions in markets and local restaurants. Attempting Kazakh phrases elicits warm responses from residents.
Dining Customs: Traditional Kazakh cuisine emphasizes hospitality and shared meals. When invited to a local home or restaurant table, accepting offerings demonstrates respect.
Best Time of Year to Visit Almaty
Spring (Late April–June): Ideal for luxury hotel stays combining city exploration with mountain day trips. Temperatures range 10–25°C, waterfalls flow at peak capacity, and parks bloom with color. Nauryz (spring festival) in March creates festive energy but can draw crowds.
Summer (July–August): Peak season with longest daylight hours, warm weather (28–34°C), and open mountain trails. Book accommodations 60–90 days ahead due to international tourism surge.
Autumn (September–October): Crisp air (10–20°C), golden larches in alpine zones, and dramatically clear mountain views create stunning conditions. Fewer tourists than summer mean superior service attention. September particularly balances comfort with crowd levels.
Winter (November–March): Harsh cold (-5° to -15°C) limits outdoor exploration except skiing at Shymbulak. However, luxury hotels’ thermal pools, steam rooms, and spas provide perfect winter relaxation. Medeu ice skating offers unique experiences.
Combining Luxury Stays with Active Sightseeing
Day 1 (Arrival): Enjoy afternoon spa treatments after airport transfer. Evening dinner at hotel’s signature restaurant.
Day 2 (City): Morning guided walking tour to Zenkov Cathedral and Central State Museum (concierge arranges). Afternoon shopping at Green Bazaar. Evening fine dining at alternative restaurant.
Day 3 (Mountain Adventure): Day trip to Big Almaty Lake via hotel-arranged transfer and guide. Return by late afternoon for dinner. This combines luxury accommodation comfort with active exploration.
Day 4 (Wellness): Dedicated spa and relaxation day with treatments, fitness classes, and leisurely meals.
Day 5 (Experience): Kok-Tobe Hill cable car ascent for panoramic photography. Evening casual dining in city, then return to hotel.
This itinerary balances luxury hotel comfort with active exploration.
Conclusion
Almaty’s five-star hotels represent Central Asia’s finest luxury accommodations, each offering distinct experiences tailored to diverse traveler preferences. The Ritz-Carlton delivers incomparable sophistication and views, Rixos provides exceptional value with comprehensive amenities, Swissôtel excels in integrated wellness programming, and InterContinental bridges business functionality with leisure luxury.
Booking Recommendations:
- Reserve early: 60–90 days ahead during peak season; 2–4 weeks during off-seasons
- Contact properties directly for package deals and loyalty program benefits
- Book during shoulder seasons (May or September) for optimal value and weather conditions
- Verify included amenities to ensure transparent pricing and superior value
Almaty awaits discovery as Central Asia’s premier luxury destination. Whether celebrating romance, pursuing wellness rejuvenation, conducting business, or simply escaping everyday responsibilities, the city’s exceptional five-star hotels ensure an unforgettable experience. The combination of world-class hospitality, mountain grandeur, and cultural richness creates memories lasting far beyond your stay.
Begin your Almaty luxury experience today. Your perfect five-star hotel awaits—reserve now for the journey of a lifetime.
