Ritz Carlton Residences - O'ahu's first Ritz brand

PHOTO: Ritz Carlton Residences at O'ahu courtesy of Ritz Carlton

Other than staying in really plush surroundings, I think the most amazing aspect of being a travel writer is seeing places of the world you normally wouldn't get a chance to see. While for many Hawaii is something typical and ordinary -- at least maybe more so than Antarctica -- for me Hawaii is as remote as anything I have considered, especially when you consider it is a 7 hour flight from Washington, D.C. to L.A. and then from L.A. another 9 hours to get over to the mainland.

Contextually, it would take the equivalent amount of time for one to travel to South Africa and the Middle East. Really interesting metrics.

So when I was asked to join the media FAM to Hawaii, of course I immediately said yes. Then, when you combine it with the Ritz Carlton, one of the most premiere luxury hotel brands in the world there was absolutely no chance I would miss out on this trip.

This media FAM will be to review the Ritz Carlton Residences on O'ahu's Waikiki Beach.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach opened its doors July 15, 2016. “Our journey on this monumental and exciting project started three years ago, and it is truly an honor to celebrate this momentous occasion with everyone involved in transforming The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach from a vision yesterday, to a reality today,” said Lance Wilhelm, Managing Principal of Irongate, developer of The Residences. “Our resort would not have been possible without the many hands that touched this project, from the hundreds of construction workers to the many members of our surrounding communities, and we would like to send a very special mahalo for their continued support and kokua.”

Featuring the ultimate in residential resort-style experiences with expansive ocean views from every residence, global culinary experiences, exceptional amenities and legendary service, construction of The Residences started in Summer 2013. Architect Guerin Glass, inspired by Hawaii’s natural elements, designed the 38-story tower using a mauka (mountain) to makai (sea) vision that is seen in the resort’s stunning exterior through artful details and inspired craftsmanship.

The exterior front reflects the ocean, sky and wind and the exterior back reflects the mountains and Honolulu’s urban metropolis. A three dimensional, modern interpretation of traditional Hawaiian kapa (bark cloth) design covers the first three floors of the tower.

Guests staying at the resort can discover a vast array of distinctive experiences along with legendary Ritz-Carlton service. Amenities include the highest infinity pool in Waikiki on the eighth floor with private cabanas, and a premier fitness center designed by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa will open in mid-September offering customized treatments that incorporate cultures and traditions from different countries around the world.

Also, adding to the enjoyment for guests is a fine selection of dining experiences that are both creative in taste and presentation.

PHOTO: BLT Market courtesy of Ritz Carlton Residences at Waikiki

BLT Market opened on June 28 offering modern, American-inspired cuisine from Executive Chef Johan Svensson, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu changes daily and is influenced by the best of the season’s bounty sourced from the local purveyors and Hawaii growers that supply Honolulu’s freshest farmers’ markets.

Additionally, BLT Market oversees all food and beverage service for the resort’s in-residence and poolside dining.

In mid-September, guests can also look forward to Dean & DeLuca, one of the world’s most beloved and iconic gourmet markets with more than 25 locations around the globe, debuting its first Hawaii location at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach.

Finally, the acclaimed Sushi Sho is also opening its first location outside of Japan at the resort in mid-September, led by Keiji Nakazawa, Tokyo’s most influential sushi chef, famed for his mastery of the techniques of the ancient Edo sushi masters.

“This is an exciting day for us as we continue to redefine the standard for luxury hospitality in Hawaii,” said Doug Chang, General Manager of The Residences. “As manager of the first Ritz-Carlton Residences on the island of Oahu, we will deliver a highly-sensory respite in Waikiki for residence owners and guests from near and abroad.”