Originally Posted by
Dr. HFH
Here we are, a couple of years later. I no longer patronize either LM or W properties for various reasons. But I prefer StR over RC any day (that said, I love the RC in Naples, Florida). Have you seen, let alone visited, StR properties in Doha or Rome? I've stayed at StR Doha several times, and am staying at both Doha and Rome during the next few months. StR is far from being RC's ugly stepsister.
Like you, I far prefer St. Regis to Ritz-Carlton, but I don't like the design direction Marriott is taking with the brand which feels like an intentional dumbing down to differentiate it and elevate Ritz-Carlton; the uinspired renovation of St. Regis Washington DC and the bleak St. Regis Bermuda immediately come to mind. I stayed at St. Regis Doha in November following their renovation; while the rooms themselves are perfectly decent, the soft product left a
lot to be desired; most staff interactions seemed perfunctory and staged rather than genuine... but that's not to paint the whole brand as a write-off. I just think it - and various brands within the overall portfolio - deserves better than what Marriott is actively doing and presenting.
khabah