Ritz-Carlton Chicago General Manager Tom Kelly accepted the honor at the Conde Nast Traveler 2001 Annual Readers’ Choice Awards, recently held in New York City. The luxury hotel ranks #1 in service in North America and was also named “Best Hotel In North America” in 2000, 1999, 1996 and 1994.  The Ritz-Carlton Chicago is the only hotel ever to win this award five times. “Hotels are a major component of the tourism industry, and The Ritz-Carlton Chicago’s reputation for superior service attracts visitors from around the world,” noted Chicago Mayor Richard Daley.  “Your hotel has affirmed our city’s reputation as a premier leisure and business travel destination.”

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago 160 East Pearson St. at Water Tower Place Chicago, Illinois

Conde Nast Traveler’s Annual Readers’ Choice Awards are recognized as the predominant international benchmark of travel service.  For the 14th year, the magazine tabulated surveys from over 25,000 readers—making it the largest private poll of consumer attitudes in the United States.

Hotels were also judged on the quality of their service, guestrooms, food/restaurants, design/layout and activities/facilities.

“This is really a tribute to our employees and Chicago,” said Tom Kelly, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton Chicago.  “The work ethic here in the Midwest is unmatched and that commitment to servicing our guests is what sets us apart.”

The hotel’s large number of tenured staff reflect that honor.  Ten percent of the hotel’s staff have marked between 15 and 25 years of service with the hotel, ranging from Director of Catering Marlene Leone to veteran housekeeper Teofila Oleksy.

And, the luxury property has been long recognized for introducing many innovative programs and services for its discerning guests.  They include a “Compcierge” who is available on a moment’s notice to assist with MIS issues and “Allergy-Sensitive” guestrooms designed for travelers with allergic sensitivities.

Opened in 1975, the 435-room Ritz-Carlton Chicago is set atop Water Tower Place, high above prestigious North Michigan Avenue, steps from Oak Street Beach, and Chicago’s bustling cultural community.  Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts acquired management of the luxury property in 1977.

With a history spanning four decades and a portfolio that now extends to six continents, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is the world’s leading operator of luxury hotels, currently managing 51 properties in 22 countries.