Luxury hotels are defined by service, and my stay at The Ritz-Carlton proved just how critical that element is.
Compared to Four Seasons, which delivers consistently excellent service, Ritz-Carlton feels more variable. On one hand, I experienced moments of exceptional care—staff going out of their way to accommodate requests and create a personalized experience.
On the other hand, there were moments of delay and lack of coordination. It wasn’t a major issue, but at this level of pricing, even small flaws become noticeable.
St. Regis offers a different approach. Their service is more formal and structured, often centered around the butler concept. It’s impressive, but sometimes less flexible than Ritz.
The room at Ritz-Carlton was comfortable and well-designed, but not as visually striking as St. Regis. Four Seasons rooms, meanwhile, often feel more modern and efficient.
Dining was solid but not exceptional. The food was good, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression. Four Seasons tends to excel more in this area.
What stood out most was how much the experience depended on the staff. When service was excellent, Ritz-Carlton felt unbeatable. When it slipped, the entire experience felt less premium.
This variability is what sets it apart—for better or worse.