Recently, I organized a once-in-a-lifetime girls' trip with 12 of my closest friends to celebrate my birthday. The birthday was a "big" one, so we wanted to make it a memorable one. After considering many destinations, we landed on the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman. There are no words to describe how beautiful the beaches are on the Grand Cayman islands, or how gorgeous the hotel is. I highly recommend going if you haven't already - it's heaven on earth.
This ultra luxe resort is located on Seven Mile Beach, a popular destination for travelers to the island. The hotel’s interior was recently renovated by award winning designer Champalimaud Design to introduce a more modern concept, while maintaining its natural beauty and cultural influences. The hotel had everything - pool areas where the hotel staff spoiled you with frozen fruit and iced beverages on the hour, white sand beaches, complimentary sailing lessons, a professional golf course, an amazing spa and a wide selection of 4 star restaurants.
What style is Ritz-Carlton?
Its interiors took inspiration from the history of English, Spanish, and African cultures in order to create a modern take on the Ritz's interiors. I loved how the hotel felt very sophisticated and elegant, while still feeling comfortable - full of inviting furniture and large scale art. It even had an art gallery located on the hotel's "bridge". Every time we went from our room to the lobby, we were stopped to admire the impressive works of local art.
Whats it like staying at the Ritz?
The rooms were exquisite and so on trend - light, airy neutrals with pops of black and cream. The mahogany chairs and light woven consoles conveyed Caribbean elegance. Carpets featured a bold stripe and coastal themed chandeliers had a unique rope pendant hanging over the table. Every detail was thoroughly considered! It’s all about the little details that make a luxe stay. From the Nespresso machine and hidden refrigerator behind the cabinets, to the plentiful storage (dressers plus 2 closets!) and all of the luxurious My fave? I loved the teeny little reading lamp integrated into the bed headboard!
How can I make my house feel like a 5 star hotel?
Consider these ways to bring those vacation vibes home from the Ritz Carlton:
Invest in high quality plush white robes and slippers
Don’t sacrifice quality on linens like crisp white sheets or an abundance of fluffy pillows
Have indulgent soaps and lotions in the bathrooms. I’m obsessed with the Diptyque Philosykos line that they offer in the rooms at the hotel!
Consider using nightstand chargers / lamps with integrated outlets to hide those cords
Introduce a signature scent in your home. According to my good friend, who is a Marriott executive, the Ritz Carltons pump a signature smell into the air vents. It instantly transports me back there whenever I smell it.
For a paradise island vibe, use colors that have an island color scheme - one that evokes a sense of the outdoors. Give it a splash of colorful boldness with vibrant shades of green, pink, and yellow that evoke the flowers that grow easily on an island.
Luxury is in the Details:
Choose furniture that adds a light and airy feel, is organic, and most important, is comfortable. You can opt for dark woods such as mahogany or caned furniture which is in style right now.
Go easy on thematic decor: feature just a little bit of capiz shell on a mirror or a lounge chair upholstered in a bright tropical fabric! Don't overdo it or you'll feel like you're living in a Caribbean gift shop.
Relaxation and luxury were key elements of the Ritz's outdoor spaces. In your home, ensure there are plenty of colorful umbrellas, plants in large textural containers, and furniture made from materials such as seagrass, jute, and rattan.
