HotelChatter

But why Herzliya? Ritz said they chose the area because it's one of the most upscale areas in the country, home to wealthy, famous Israelis, as well as foreign diplomats and officials. There's also several restaurants and nightclubs nearby, making it one of the more popular nightlife spots in Israel. And no doubt, the scenic beaches on a long stretch of the coast and the large yachting marina nearby had a hand in the decision process as well. After all, the wealthy need a place to dock their yachts during their once-a-year outings, don't they?

Sadly, there's a bit of wait involved. The new Ritz-Carlton is scheduled to open in March 2012. When it opens, it will have 110 rooms and 85 Ritz-Carlton Residential Suites.

In addition to a Ritz, Israel will get a couple of other luxury hotels familiar to us living stateside. Waldorf-Astoria Collection also considered Israel a good spot for new investment, and bought the historic Palace Hotel in 2008. Waldorf is currently renovating the property in the hopes of opening it sometime in 2010 with 220 rooms and 30 residences. Travelers will also find the new 194-room Mamilla Hotel in Jerusalem, designed by the same man who designed Columbus Center in New York, Moshe Safdie.

Apparently it was time for Ritz-Carlton to get in on all the action. No word yet on opening room rates, but we’ll let you know when we find out more.

[Photo: Ronalmog]