The Ritz-Carlton, Perth

I loved the entrance as you walked through the hotel to the reception, the staff are friendly, the room was stunning. Wooden floor boards, nice and spacious, lovely view of the river. The bathroom was next level. Huge! Loved that the toilet was separate and the bath tub was huge. Beautiful soft lighting. Infinity pool was great. Even though it was cold outside, being heated my kids and I were still able to use it. Easy to say this is one of my top favourite hotels now.

There wasn’t anything I could complain about.

Every single thing. Outstanding property and fantastic, friendly, attentive team. For example, we arrived with a lot of luggage plus we have a wheelchair so it can all be unwieldy. I was trying to get something out of the car and the valet said, and I quote, “you’re at the Ritz. Let us take care of that for you.” And he did. Rooms are beautiful with automatic blinds, very comfortable bed, gorgeous bathroom, plush Frette robes, pool is stunning and even has a complementary coffee machine for espresso, cappuccino, flat white, etc., nice gym, wonderful restaurants, valet parking…everything you’d expect from the Ritz. It’s right in Elizabeth Quay so walking distance to many excellent restaurants, literally across the street from the Rottnest Express ferry (don’t miss Rottnest Island!), and otherwise centrally located so easy driving to all of Perth’s attractions.

Having to leave.

Second visit to this beautiful property, this time with my daughter who checked in ahead of me. Firstly, the property is excellent - rooms, location, breakfast, pool, the “ladies and gentlemen” as the Ritz calls its staff. So that’s why this property merits its five star rating. The breakfast is extensive, fresh and beautifully presented - the new crepe station was a great addition. The poolside loungers had deep and comfortable cushions, much better than anywhere else I’ve been in recent years. But secondly (and not really detracting from how good this place is at everything else), there is still something a bit wonky about “space available upgrades”. I’m both a Bonvoy Gold member and booked through Private Upgrades (similar to Amex FHR programme. Based on my experience last time, I tried to be clearer about not upgrading me to a perceived or actual “better” room type if I lost the premium view of the river, quay and clock tower. So no Langley and no city. When I got there my daughter was in a city (skyline) view room. Apparently the upgrade was a romantic bathtub placed so you could look out at the lights in the city - not really a plus for a mother and daughter. It also meant a bigger bathroom and a smaller bedroom. The hotel originally had me as Mr, and the welcome gift was addressed to Mr and Mrs, so I can see how someone might have thought a romantic bathtub would be appreciated. Next time I’m back I think I will have to put a “do not upgrade” note on my booking. Or just reach out first? Anyhow, I emailed ahead of my arrival and the hotel put things right. I was shown two options including a studio but ended up in the originally booked room category on a high floor with the best of views. I’ve seen enough city scrapes to last a lifetime, so really value being able to have a wide water view. Tried a new restaurant in the Quay this time as well - Argyle - which is a weird name for a Japanese restaurant. Very very yum but also $$$$

Location, incredible facilities and so luxurious.

Nothing