Ashley C.
Yelp
I recently got a facial at the Ritz and really enjoyed my experience. They use Eminence products, which is a wonderful organic facial line that I even use at home. The facial was hands down a 5 star experience. My esthetician was friendly and informative, but also said the magic words "I am going to stop talking now and let you relax". It was wonderful! I especially loved their plush and heated facial bed, it was super comfy.
The amenities at the spa were also nice. I was provided with a locker and a fantastic cushy spa robe. They had a variety of products to use ranging from razors to mouthwash to hair products. I definitely recommend using the shower located between the steam room and sauna because it is an overhead rain shower head with 4 powerful shower panels on the wall for a 360 shower experience. The other showers are just plain showers. The entire space, compared to other spas, was rather small.
I made good use of their "healing waters" hot tub and their sauna. There wasn't anything special about them, but it was relaxing. They had iced towels near the sauna which was very refreshing. Unfortunately, the steam room was closed the day I was there. I am sure I am not alone, but the steam room is my favorite part of visiting the spa. I was very disappointed that it was closed without notice, but the sweet attendant saw my disappointment and later offered me a complimentary gift of spa products. I thought that was a very nice gesture and I understand things happen, but it definitely contributed to my less than 5 star experience.
The other contributing factor was the noise. I was booked at the same time as a large bridal party. They were laughing and having a great time, as they should, so I escaped to the quiet area to relax with my complimentary glass of champagne. However, the quiet lounge does not have a door and is directly across the hall from the open dressing area, which also doesn't have a door, so it was very loud! It certainly wasn't relaxing until the group left. Adding doors would be an easy solution for the Ritz to make the spa experience relaxing for everyone.
In addition to the champagne I also enjoyed a variety of flavored hot teas and the world's cutest tiny gummy bears.
My check-in/out experience was great and all the staff was friendly and helpful. They seemed to genuinely want to make my day special. I especially loved the warm welcome with essential oils.
I would definitely come back to the Ritz spa, especially if i caught another one of their mid-week deals. However, if trying to decide between the Gaylord Texan spa, as I was this time around, I would probably go with the Gaylord simply because it is much more spacious and plush (even though it doesn't have a hot tub or fancy shower). I think the Ritz is a pretty solid 4 stars "yay, I'm a fan" spa.