Thursday, March 24, 2011

Anachromism on the Caribbean: Ritz-Carlton Cancun


The Ritz-Carlton Cancun exists as an icon of brand culture, but of Ritz-Carlton culture of the 1990s. Walking into the lobby and observing the decor, staff uniforms, and language, is a bit like walking into a colonial reenactment plantation in Georgia. The whole thing feels like a stage set somehow, conveying a sense of luxury, but how it used to be.

"They still have to wear pantyhose to work!" Connie half whispered on our tour with Sales Director, Mariana.

In the public areas of the hotel, we passed 18th Century Spanish portraits, copies of Watteau, sparkling chandeliers, sunbursts and marble halls.

At lunch, discussing programs I might consider bringing to the Ritz, I couldn't help but notice how the weight of tradition seemed to weigh down on Mariana, Catholicly.

I wonder what conversations might go on in the sales office about the gleaming white, beach chic properties down the street, steps away from mega clubs where youth and the young at heart evangelically dance and celebrate life. "How, will we stay relevant to the young generation?" a director might ask.

Later, during our tour of the spa: "Mr. Bartholomew, I have taken the liberty to book you an appointment tomorrow morning at 8:00 a.m." Mariana did not mess around. Like all the staff here, she anticipated my slightest whim and proactively ensured its fulfillment. 

With the breeze and sunshine streaming in from my ocean-front balcony starting at 5:30 a.m. I had no trouble getting up in time for my appointment.

While it may feel a bit old-fashioned, the service level and dedication of the Ritz Cancun staff continue to inspire. And for this reason alone, this white-gloved anachronism on the Caribbean is worth a stay.

1 comment:

  1. I hope you're getting some travel industry eyeballs reading your blog. I can easily see a fruitful future of travel writing (ala PLF prose as well as your own industry mag) for you. hopefully others are taking notice. when's your next article to be published in a trade mag?

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