Arrival/Check-In: I arrived in a rental vehicle after driving in from Miami International Airport which, for reference, is not a terrible commute to and from The Ritz-Carlton. The hotel’s structure towers high above the ocean’s edge, and a discreet driveway welcomes only the informed and invited. The hotel’s entrance offers privacy in a city which favors the vibrant and apparent, making it a welcome change of pace, as I was in town for many meetings and looking for a bit of peace. The valet service was seamless, and the doorman welcomed us to a gorgeous lobby filled with contemporary décor, marble and modern artwork. The front desk was informed, and a staff member escorted me to my one-bedroom suite. This particular property is unique because it features two large suites on each floor, offering exclusivity and plenty of room to entertain.

Guest Quarters: The elevator doors opened to a small foyer with two doors, one for each suite. The elevators operate via key card access for added security. The one-bedroom suite boasted a sprawling layout fit for a queen or king. The entrance had a beautiful glass light fixture that reminded me of Murano glass I had seen in Italy. The suite featured a mix of neutral tones and subtle aquatic design elements coupled with modern furniture and medium-deep-toned woods throughout. It offered a kitchen, full dining table, living room, desk area, powder room, queen-sized bedroom, walk-in closet, large tub with floor-to-ceiling windows (don’t worry — there are remote-controlled curtains for the non-exhibitionist), a waterfall shower and two balconies with outdoor seating. The comfortable bed was made up in high-quality linens. A full stocked minibar was available along with three televisions. I was especially impressed by the television screen in the mirror of the bathroom — quite convenient. The suite’s accommodations were marvelous, and the space offered a serene escape. Both the bay and oceanfront sides of the suite offered spectacular views. This property truly allows one to re-center and enjoy a luxurious experience.

Services/Amenities: The hotel features a multitude of services to accommodate any need a guest may have. The resort spa, Exhale, has more than 10,000 feet of space and offers such experiences as fitness classes, massage, a couple’s suite and nail salon, all with sweeping views of the ocean for a truly Zen experience. Two on-site restaurants feature fresh and area-inspired cuisine. The Artisan Beach House proves a great option for a scrumptious breakfast to kick-start your day with made-to-order options or a buffet. It also features a great bar area for an afternoon cocktail or lunch. Water’s Edge, the poolside restaurant and bar, offers a convenient way to enjoy your time in the pool or stop by after a walk on the beach. The hotel sits right in the heart of the gorgeous Bal Harbour area; so whether one decides to stay on property or venture out, there is always something to do for the lucky traveler who stays at The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ If you venture out to explore the shopping and restaurants in town, you can request a house car for pick-up from and drop-off to nearby hot spots.
◆ Traveling with family? Ritz Kids is designed to delight the little ones traveling with you so you can have some time to relax yourself. A variety of supervised programs offers parents a break.
◆ Reserve the Couture Concierge personalized shopping service to enjoy a shopping experience with Elysze Held, an exclusive in-house fashion expert and personal shopper for guests.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAL HARBOUR, MIAMI

10295 Collins Ave.
Bal Harbour, FL 33154
tel 305 455 5400
ritzcarlton.com