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It was a pleasantly warm late summer afternoon when we
arrived at the Ritz Carlton's soaring main entrance, located on the
sophisticated 'Avenue of the Arts', right across Philadelphia's historic city
hall. "Welcome to the Ritz Carlton" a smiling, friendly, uniformed valet
announced as he purposely opened the door of our Daimler Chrysler. The Ritz
Carlton Philadelphia resides in an early 19th century neoclassic building that
used to be a bank, a priceless historic landmark in one-of-a-kind location just
steps from applauded cultural sites, exceptional shops and the commerce
district.
The towering columns that flanked the main entrance were matched
in stature in the spectacular lobby by a striking circular grand space covered
by a 140- foot tall dome resembling the Pantheon of Rome. Several elegantly
upholstered, carefully placed sitting areas invited ladies and gentlemen to
pause and absorb the surrounding architectural alchemy. Stylishly dressed
people sipped
tea
from fine bone china all the while their 'brilliant' pinkies raised in
mannerly fashion. As we were looking up we discovered circular open corridors
allowing spectators to take in the conglomerates within these illustrious
rotunda walls of finest marble. An open, but somehow discreet ambiance, indeed!
Check-inn was quick and very professional and up to now above reproach until an
impeccably dressed uniformed member of the bell staff approached us with a
million dollar smile, Brice who took service to another level. The people's man
addressed us by our last name and welcomed us to the family, then guided us to
our accommodations on the 28th floor. The elevator didn't make a sound and if
it wouldn't have been for a minimal change in pressure, we probably would not
have known that we were moving upwards. Long, elegant corridors presented deep,
sound swallowing carpets and the moment Brice opened the door to our elegant
suite, we felt at home. These windows are displaying a truly spectacular view
over a truly spectacular, historic city. |
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| Our Superior Room
accommodations were of warm woods and golden tones, but a luscious artfully
arranged chocolate tray demanded our undivided attention. The linens on this
royal bed were of exquisite quality and as we later found out are available for
purchase. A pillow menu allowed each of us to address our individual needs as
our companion Brice was so keen to point out. The luxurious bathroom was rather
small in total square footage but featured opulent glass enclosed marble shower
facilities, easily accommodating two. We slipped as soon as possible into
all-white, luscious bathrobes, embroidered with the initials of Ritz-Carlton's
frequently returning guest. The bath amenities were of excellent taste and we
found most accommodating that the WC was separated in true European style. A
'bath butler' and a 'bath menu' are available on request. |
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| We highly suggest to reserve access to the exclusive
‘Ritz-Carlton
Club Level’ located on the 30th floor featuring five cuisine and
beverage presentations daily, including snacks, desserts, afternoon teas and a
concierge that provides guests with the highest personal service ~ and an even
more
breathtaking
view. We found the service at the RCP overall impeccable and throughout our
stay noticed that the staff was communicating by tiny mics that allow them to
recognize and address each guest individually, even if they are just passing
by. |
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“Our hats are off to the Ritz-Carlton family of hotels and
resorts for their true
measure of consistency in personal service and
sincere hospitality.” ~ TB |
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| Seven Stars and
Stripers® - Award-Hand-Out at the Ritz Carlton - Philadelphia,
USA |
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| Amongst the Seven Stars and Stripes Hotels of the
World, The Ritz-Carltons are not only renowned for their one hundred year hotel
tradition, but their prestigious leadership training programs. "Ladies and
Gentlemen are training Ladies and Gentlemen - and - Ladies and Gentlemen are
serving Ladies and Gentlemen" is the manner in which the staff presents
themselves to the hotel guest. When we met with General Manager Elizabeth
Mullins, it became imminently evident that she has adopted the corporate
philosophy in her own lifestyle. She introduced us to hotel manager Grant C.
Dipman and my wife was delighted to have finally met another charming gentleman
who wears a Double Windsor. Grant Dipman has worked himself through the ranks
to this new hotel manager's position where he started just a couple of weeks
ago. The 'solid handshake' executive moved cross-country with his wife Silvia
and their two girls (10 and 13). When he arrived at the RCP, the entire
available staff had lined up and welcomed the 'American Dream Man' from Nevada
personally as the new member of the family. A genuine gesture by a well-trained
team! Our hats are off to the Ritz-Carlton family of hotels and resorts for
their true measure of consistency in personal service and sincere
hospitality. |
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by
Thorsten & Simone Buehrmann
Editor: Ingrid
Lemme
Editor-in-Chief: John Lomitola |
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| © 2006 ~ Seven Stars and Stripes, Inc. |
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