Phulay Bay Remains the Crown Jewel of Ritz-Carlton Reserve's Elite Collection

From Thailand's lush shores to Costa Rica's wild beauty, one writer's quest to experience all eight Ritz-Carlton Reserve retreats reveals a world of exclusivity. But Phulay Bay stays unmatched.

, and Administrator

2026 March 15 . 1:04 PM

1 min read

The image shows a black and white photo of a large room with chairs, tables, flower vases, pillars,... — The image shows a black and white photo of a large room with chairs, tables, flower vases, pillars, chandeliers, lights, windows, curtains, and a carpet on the floor. The room is located in the Ritz Carlton Hotel in New York City.

Phulay Bay Remains the Crown Jewel of Ritz-Carlton Reserve's Elite Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand is known for its exceptional luxury and breathtaking locations. Among its eight exclusive hotels worldwide, Phulay Bay in Thailand stands out as the first—and remains the most celebrated. Each property is designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, offering guests a unique and unforgettable experience.

Phulay Bay opened as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve, setting the standard for the brand. Nestled between two national parks on the edge of Phang Nga Bay, its villas and pavilions are built on a grand scale. Every accommodation features a private pool and a dedicated butler, ensuring a stay of unmatched comfort and service.

The author, who has visited multiple Reserve properties, describes Phulay Bay as their favourite. Nightly rates start at $1,070, reflecting the hotel's opulence and serene setting. The experience here—combining luxury, natural beauty, and warm hospitality—defines what the Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand represents. The most recent addition to the collection is Nekajui in Costa Rica, the eighth Reserve hotel. Between its opening and that of Siari in Riviera Nayarit, no new Reserve properties were launched. The author's mission to visit all eight before 2025 has taken them across Asia and beyond, facing challenges like securing Chinese visas along the way.

Phulay Bay continues to lead as the flagship of the Ritz-Carlton Reserve collection. With its unrivalled setting and service, it remains a benchmark for luxury travel. The author's journey to experience all eight properties highlights the brand's global appeal and exclusivity.