The view from the room was breathtaking; I was truly stunned the moment I opened the curtains after waking up. The room's decor was luxurious, matching the Ritz-Carlton standard. As a Titanium member, I received one of four welcome gifts, which somewhat made up for the fact that breakfast wasn't included in the loyalty program. The room was also equipped with smart switches, but there were some operational issues. For example, the switch panel on the nightstand couldn't control all the lights and curtains in the room, requiring me to use the switch by the door. I suggest offering a combination of high and low pillows, as the current ones are both quite high. Additionally, it's a bit outdated that there's no auto washlet.

Our stay at Ritz-Carlton Almaty was exceptional, in fact it was our fav part of the city. The best was the warm service from the staff, in particular thanks to Yekaterina (Kate), Malika, and concierge lady. Kate was welcoming and informative upon check in. Guest service staff Malika gave us attentive care throughout our stay and accommodated our preferences, which truly enhanced our experience in the country. Concierge lady gave us comprehensive advice on where to visit. The view from both our room and the Sky Lounge was unparalleled. Snow-capped mountains framed the landscape, offering a mesmerizing backdrop that undoubtedly ranks among the best in Almaty. Will definitely come back here if we’re back in the city.

All is good. The staff is very enthusiastic. I was warmly welcomed. The room is clean and luxurious. I will return as soon as possible

As a Marriott Bonvoy Titanium member who stays over 100 nights per year across various hotels in the network, I typically encounter exemplary service that reflects the high standards of the brand. Unfortunately, my recent experience at Ritz Carlton Almaty was a stark departure from these expectations, marking it as the first and only Marriott property worldwide where I felt compelled to cancel my reservation upon check-in. After a stay in Shanghai at three different Marriott hotels, including the W, where I received complimentary extra beds and room upgrades without request, my expectations were understandably high. Upon arriving in Almaty for a two-day visit, I booked a twin room at the Ritz Carlton, a hotel I had previously praised and reviewed positively. Anticipating a potential upgrade to a suite, I had proactively contacted the hotel a day in advance to arrange for an additional bed in the living room for a second guest—a common practice at Marriott properties worldwide, including in Dubai, Shanghai, and Barcelona, without any issues or costs. However, to my surprise, the Ritz Carlton Almaty requested an additional fee of 33,000 KZT for the extra bed, despite already charging premium rates for their rooms. This fee for a basic amenity, typically complimentary across the Marriott network, was unexpected and inconsistent with the full-service ethos the hotel purports to uphold. Upon my late evening arrival, after my co-guest had already been accommodated with the additional bed, I was informed at check-in that the extra bed charge was included in my bill. Despite my previous communications with the hotel, which I believed had resolved the issue, the staff, particularly a second receptionist who joined the conversation, addressed the situation in a surprisingly confrontational manner. I was given an ultimatum: either move to a lower category room with two beds or have the extra bed removed. Exhausted from travel and expecting a seamless check-in at what was supposed to be the best hotel in the city, I found this interaction extremely disappointing. I decided to cancel my booking and immediately relocated to the Swissotel, where I received a complimentary upgrade and the requested extra bed at no additional charge. This experience at Ritz Carlton Almaty was not only an anomaly in my extensive history with Marriott but also a significant disappointment. It’s disheartening to encounter such unwelcoming service and a rigid attitude at a property that positions itself as a leader in hospitality, especially towards a loyal guest. This was a first in my travels with Marriott, where the usual standard is to accommodate and appreciate loyal patrons, not alienate them

Given how lovely most Ritz-Carlton's are, this one definitely missed the mark. It feels like an old hotel that was converted into a Ritz. The service is average, access to the rooms is a pain (need to go to the 30th floor and then change elevators), etc. I wouldn't recommend this much.