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Worlclubdirectory team 16 Oct 2025

The Ritz Legacy – Inside the World’s Most Timeless Luxury Hotel Chain

For more than a century, the name Ritz has been synonymous with absolute elegance.

From the Belle Époque heart of Paris to the glittering skylines of London, Tokyo, and New York, The Ritz Hotels have defined the idea of timeless luxury—where impeccable service, golden interiors, and discretion meet in perfect harmony.

A Royal Beginning

The story began in 1898, when Swiss visionary César Ritz opened the very first Hôtel Ritz Paris on Place Vendôme. His revolutionary concept combined opulence with comfort—electric light, private bathrooms, and room service were unheard-of luxuries at the time. The Paris Ritz quickly became the home of aristocrats, artists, and fashion icons, from Coco Chanel to Ernest Hemingway.

Expansion and Global Fame

Following its success, the Ritz brand expanded to London (1906) and gradually around the globe. Each property retained a distinct identity but followed the same creed: classic architecture, world-class cuisine, and service that anticipates every guest’s need before they ask.

In the 20th century, Ritz Hotels hosted kings, Hollywood legends, and global leaders. The brand came to represent the highest social currency—“to stay at the Ritz” became a phrase synonymous with success and sophistication.

Reinvention for a New Era

Today, The Ritz-Carlton (a continuation of César Ritz’s vision) operates more than 100 hotels worldwide, from Bali to Dubai. Each property blends local culture with the brand’s historic DNA.

Modern Ritz suites combine heritage elegance with digital comforts: touchscreen room controls, curated art, Michelin-starred restaurants, and private club lounges reserved for elite travelers.

Legendary Moments

Coco Chanel lived 35 years at the Ritz Paris.

Hemingway famously “liberated” its bar during WWII.

The Ritz London remains one of the few hotels to still require gentlemen to wear a jacket at dinner.

These details are what transform the Ritz experience from a stay into a story.

The Ritz in the Digital Age

In 2025, The Ritz continues to merge heritage and innovation. Virtual-reality previews, AI concierge services, and immersive art collaborations keep the brand relevant to younger generations of luxury travelers. Yet, the soul remains the same: elegance without excess, tradition without time.

Discover more luxury destinations on WorldClubDirectory.com – The #1 Global Nightlife Guide.

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