El Elcade 15,
Las Condes,
Santiago, Chile
Stepping through the doors of the Ritz–Carlton chain's only property in South America, we are immediately enfolded in lush, old–world luxury. This shouldn't be a surprise, given the chain's reputation for "putting on the Ritz," but it's an instantly–welcoming feeling of familiarity in a vibrant foreign city.
Located in the capital's most prestigious and refined neighborhood, El Golf, the 205–room hotel lies within walking distance of upscale boutiques and restaurants. An entry to Santiago's modern subway is right outside. Or there's a fleet of hotel cars waiting to whisk you away for business or pleasure.
When asked if he spoke English, the concierge replied "Of course, Madam," immediately setting our expectation levels for personal service a notch higher. In fact, all the staff we spoke with pride themselves on doing their jobs with warm, friendly smiles, believing this sets them apart from other luxury hotels. We certainly get the impression they are there to serve guests' every need.
Although clientele are mainly Americans on business, there's a steady flow of cruise passengers in the summer. The new Queen Mary is among a number of ships that stop in nearby Valparaiso and many passengers use the Ritz–Carlton as a base for pre– or post–cruise touring.
Santiago is a good center for business. But, with its spectacular setting against the towering snow–covered Andes, it also promises entertainment, pleasure and excitement for fans of outdoor activities such as skiing, surfing or trekking the mountains. And the impressive Los Leones Golf Club is hard by this hotel.
The Ritz is just three years old and of modern design, but its interior style is classic. Everywhere we look are traditional furnishings, replicas of 18th–century paintings and chinoserie. In public spaces, carpets of antique design float on polished hardwood floors and furniture groupings encourage quiet conversation. Large windows in the hallways provide natural light and guests can check views of the Andes and the bustling city as they walk to their rooms.
Fourteen floors of luxurious rooms and suites are crowned by a rooftop conservatory housing an indoor pool and jacuzzi. Its wicker furniture offers an ideal place to rest and enjoy the natural beauty of the city while a variety of spa services are offered––including one especially designed to ease jet lag.
Guests can choose from a range of room types but all feature warm earth tones and golds and the usual amenities, including high speed internet access, dual phone lines, 24–hour in–room dining and digital safety deposit box. Beds are plumped with down and fine linens. Comfy arm chairs invite quiet moments after a long day of work or sightseeing. Bathrooms boast separate shower and tub and fine toiletries.
Chileans eat late and often. Between lunch about two o'clock and dinner after nine, there's tea time about six. The Ritz–Carlton's tented outdoor patio offers a relaxed spot for lunch, the lobby lounge is a perfect place for tea and cakes and Adra, the formal dining room, features local delicacies beautifully prepared and presented.
At any time, the refined Ritz Bar serves high–end liquors and classic drinks. But it shows a creative spirit in offering 100 varieties of martini. And if you ask, the bartender will happily put a new twist on traditional favorites. How about a pisco sour made with juice of jalapeño pepper, carrot, ginger or avocado––or hot chocolate prepared with liquor and fruit?
We'd need to stay more than a few days to try them all. But that wouldn't be a bad assignment!
Web Address: www.ritzcarlton.com/hotels/santiago/
Total Number of Rooms and Suites: 220
Published Rates (including breakfast): $269 to $509
Presidential Suite $1,850
No tax for visitors if paid in US dollars
Review by Lorie and Paul Bennett.
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