Marble, Crystal, Onyx, Champagne: Inside A Newly Renovated Ritz-Carlton

Given Philadelphia’s massive renaissance, trendsetters of many types will, no doubt find themselves in city for an extended stay due to either important business meetings or the burgeoning art scene.  There is a sense of new opportunity and creativity here attracting more international visitors and even catching the eye of Amazon for it's potential HQ2 location.  And for one’s hotel choice, the Ritz-Carlton is the single best option which exceeds demands and expectations.

Having recently undergone a renovation befitting that of a city in transition, the Ritz-Carlton in Philadelphia offers the sweeping glamour of days gone by with massively high ceilings and breadth of space that recalls the grandeur of former, powerful banks. This is about a sense of stability and authority that the seemingly acres of marble greeting lobby visitors demonstrates, yet somehow the design sidesteps that which could be considered cold and austere.  No, this is about a daring combination of black, steel and crystal accents that quietly murmurs sophistication and style as the hotel welcomes you into its own perfect world. Here are five reasons why the Ritz-Carlton of Philadelphia gets luxury right:


The Club: First, the general manager of the hotel has done a fine job from ensuring that a consistent tone of impeccable service, not typically easily achieved outside the number one and two markets in the United States, is set from the front desk to entire staff you might encounter on elevators to any service you desire during your stay. There is a beautiful balance of utility yet great warmth. Guests actually are made to feel part of the establishment as if they were members at a social club such as Soho House though with no achingly hip vibe or overblown snobbery. This focus is emphasized by the hotel's Club. Well worth the extra fee of $100, one can gain access to the Club where light breakfast, lunch, mid-day snacks, hors-d'oeuvres, chocolates and cordials are served throughout the day. The hotel’s chef has ensured a full array of wonderful choices, and a full suite of beverages even wine and spirits are offered, beginning with lunch. The Club boasts a fantastic view of City Hall with tits ancient clock and William Penn, Pennsylvania’s namesake, atop seems almost within reach.  There is a comforting luxury with a Club concierge attending to one’s every need. Guests can get in a bit of laptop work, simply lounge or run in and out. Thankfully, there is a no mobile phone usage rule, as well.

Spa: Okay, so all hotels have spas. All luxury properties boast of theirs. We’ve seen many around the world. This one is a standout. Richel D’Ambra is not some mere relaxation offering, though surely, one leaves floating on air. This is about true expert training,  customer engagement and actually looking different upon departure. First, there is the more than comfy spa robe and slippers. The facilities include a steam room and sauna after warm reception by employees. Afterward, clients are shown to the relaxation room to await their appointment. There is a bevy of candle scents, reclining chairs, other-worldly lights that make this room very special, indeed, and it’s set at a perfect temperature. Part of the luxury of belonging that the Ritz Carlton offers? One is encouraged any time to visit this room at any point during one’s stay. Guests can even order food to that room as well.

But back to the services. The Hydrating Facial is a highly recommended treatment. This is truly the real deal that somehow combines extremely gentle suction-like action with that which later also plumps the skin to provide breath-taking results. There is not one second of pain, and the treatment results in a rejuvenated look many days later.  Book with Courtney if you can. She is a dedicated professional with years of experience who can explain everything from tri-peptides to hyaluronic acid with sincerity reserved for academic levels but with a girl’s girl vibe that is grounded and professional yet very warm.  The spa also offers its exclusively imported skincare line for additional purchase should you so desire.



Eat: Aquimero is the hotel’s Latin-inspired seafood restaurant. There is great attention to detail and creativity with the menu but perhaps the best part of the dining experience is the open air flow to the lobby so you can keep an eye on the action while being somewhat secluded. Huge, sweeping white floor-to-ceiling drapes are all that which separate the restaurant from the lobby giving it a modern, unique, creative urban flow. The wait staff is definitely attentive to detail as well.

Eat Some More: LOVE cookies await guest upon arrival in the room, along with various other macaroons and chocolates. The collection makes for a beautiful added touch that reinforces the city brand. Inspired by the famous LOVE artwork in the city, the cookies have mimicked the design and are delicious shortbread.



Live: if you find that you can’t get enough of this Ritz-Carlton location, and you might not, consider living here. For those who fantasize about living in a hotel, The Residences at the Ritz-Carlton can make that fantasy come true. Housekeeping and more is provided in stunning apartments with private entrances just off the lobby. Indeed some of the most expensive real estate in Philadelphia can be attributed to the Residence. The Penthouse recently sold for $14M (via real estate cognoscenti in Philadelphia with whom we had dinner while there), setting a near-record for the city.

Overall, nearly on par with that of some of the best in the Middle East, look no further than the Ritz-Carlton when staying in Philadelphia. This is your true reservation for luxury anywhere near the area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.ritzcarlton.com