I had the rare privilege of attending a Board of Trustees meeting that was held at the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach from Feb 1-4. I don't normally stay at hotels of this luxurious quality and calibre. What sets a hotel of this quality apart is the service by the staff, which is truly remarkable. Everything was done impeccably -- from coffee/tea/water service for the various meetings to the banquet meals, and everything in between.

The setting, right along the ocean, in Manalapan, FL is beautiful, and all one has to do is open the door to your balcony (every room has a balcony or terrace) to hear the beautiful sound of the waves lapping at the shore. Each guest room has a "control panel" on the nightstand, from which all the lights in the room and bathroom, as well as the AC can be controlled. Housekeeping comes to each room twice a day: once during the day to clean and straighten up, and once in the evening for "turn down" service and to empty wastebaskets and refresh towels one more time.

This is a 5 star 5 diamond Hotel and is a beautiful property. I was there for work but was able to relax as well. The fire pit outside is mesmerizing and you can cuddle up with your loved one for a memorable evening. The staff could not have done any more for us and was truly very accommodating in every fashion. They welcomed us and we felt very at home in such a plush Hotel.

The staff at the Ritz Carlton make this hotel stand out. Whoever is responsible for staff training is doing an incredible job. From the fellow who opened the cab door when we arrived, to the front desk, to the bellmen, to the beach staff, to the restaurant servers, to the chamber maids, everyone was unfailingly friendly and helpful. Now, there is one small beef I have with the hotel: not all "ocean view" rooms are the same. Some are advertised as having "ocean views/ north south" but if you are in a lower floor closer to the lobby area, the only way to actually see the ocean is to go out on the balcony and look very hard. But, the front desk acknowledged the problem, and was very accomodating when I asked if there was any way to move me to a room where the ocean was more 'in view'. Of course, you pay for all the wonderful attention- it is not a cheap hotel, but they provided all the water bottles you want, free of charge, and there is water with fresh lemons and oranges in various spots in the hotel. The spa is lovely, and includes a wonderful gym with group classes (including spinning and yoga). The only drawbacks: the beach itself is very narrow and there is nothing in close walking distance (the mall across the street has many vacancies). Obviously, neither of these are within the hotel's control. All in all a wonderful place to unwind in the Palm Beaches.

We had dinner at the restaurant and I have to say that it was quite an experience.
The beer was stale, the second bottle of wine was not chilled, the steak was served luke warm,
the white wine was served in red wine glasses and the espresso was served in a large coffee cup. It was just too much for one night.