The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte

Hm, this did not seem like a 5-star hotel in the least. A spa retreat is supposed to be an escape. A reset. The good: The steam room. The singular digital shower with 270 spray heads. The facial. The men's side assistant. The not-so-good: The spa staff that was not trained nor naturally genuine, quite stiff (manager didn't hire the right people), to the massage that I felt like I was in trouble for not being able to loosen when I had explained I was there for a fatigued neck and legs from backpacking(additionally appt was at 18:00, was told I would be fetched at 17:55, was hastily fetched at 18:03 and had 3-5minutes of eval, and was risen at 19:00 promptly, very unfortunate), the "relaxation room" which was SO COLD and furniture that my 154cm husband couldn't fit on without legs hanging off (i'm 175cm and it felt like childrens furniture), to the cold, albeit heated, pool, surrounding by the same mini-furniture and birds of paradise potters that needed attention and an ambient room temperature at 18C, the dry sauna that doubtly went above 65C. The gym, whilst well equipped was VERY cramped with all of the aforementioned well-equipped equipment. Too much in that space. TLDR: If you are looking for a spa in that area, find a spa that specializing in being a spa. This was a real letdown. -$600.

I was very disappointed with our couple spa experience on November 29th 2024. We were led to our separate dressing rooms and given a brief tour and left alone I had requested a larger robe for my husband prior to arrival but he was not offered one. The relaxation room was not a relaxation room at all. It was so cold that we couldn't stay in there as well as the other guest. All of us had to wait in the pool area due the freezing temperature in the relaxation room. I had to ask for champagne. I had made it clear and called several times before my visit that it was my husband's birthday. No welcome. Happy Birthday or anything when we arrived. I paid alot of money for a couples massage and pedicures. This was a big disappointment for the money paid.

Once again, the Ritz sets the bar when it comes to exquisite experiences. Our server was simply extraordinary in every way. It was Vicki's 70th and we got stuck in Charlotte, not making it to NYC for her celebration (flight cancelation). She totally made up for it and created an experience for us that was unforgettable. Champagne toast, excellent wine suggestions and fabulous food, thanks to the incredible chefs in the kitchen; perfectly cooked/seasoned filet for Vicki, spectacular sea bass preparation for me. Thank you to everyone at the Ritz for making our evening special after we were unable to complete our trip the way we had planned. Sincerely appreciated. PS - Best bread in the universe!!