I walked into The Ritz-Carlton expecting the pinnacle of luxury. What I found was something slightly different—still impressive, but not always superior to its competitors.
Compared to Four Seasons, Ritz feels more traditional. There’s a sense of history in the design, from the furniture to the layout. Four Seasons, on the other hand, feels fresher and more adaptive to modern tastes. St. Regis, meanwhile, leans heavily into opulence, often feeling more visually striking than Ritz.
The service at Ritz-Carlton is often described as legendary, and in some moments, it truly is. Staff members greet you warmly, remember your preferences, and aim to exceed expectations. However, during my stay, there were small lapses—delays in room service and moments where attention felt slightly off.
This is where Four Seasons excels. Their consistency is hard to beat. Every interaction feels smooth and intentional. St. Regis offers a more formal, sometimes rigid service style, which can feel less personal than Ritz.
The room was elegant but not groundbreaking. It had everything I needed, but it didn’t surprise me. St. Regis rooms often feel more luxurious in terms of decor, while Four Seasons prioritizes comfort and usability.
Amenities were solid—spa, gym, and dining all met expectations. But again, nothing stood out as exceptional compared to the competition.
So, is Ritz-Carlton better? Not necessarily. But it has a unique charm. It doesn’t try to reinvent luxury—it preserves it.
And for some travelers, that’s exactly what makes it worth choosing.