5 ways to afford The Ritz, by price
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Ritz Charlotte Aqua Lounge
I think we can all agree that The Ritz Carlton is a pretty swanky place. It’s always seemed like the epitome of sophistication and wealth… and honestly somewhere I never thought I’d be able to afford. And while I probably (read: definitely) can’t just stay there for a week and drop a couple of G’s for the heck of it — I did find some ways to afford the Ritz without breaking the bank.
Whether you want to impress on a date or just treat yourself to a spa day, I’ve got five different ways you can ball out (on a budget) at the Ritz, ranked by price.
(1) Have a coffee date at Bar Cocoa
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First date? Want to name drop without spending $45 on a casual meet up? Go to Bar Cocoa for a cup of coffee and split a cupcake (if things are going well).
2 Medium Coffees ($7) + 1 Cupcake ($2) = $9
(2) Snag some drinks at The Punch Room
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The Punch Room is a pretty big deal. I wish there were more places like this in Charlotte. They’ve perfectly paired these delicious cocktails with a plush lounge. You will feel like somebody in this place. If you’re lucky enough to get a seat at the bar, tell Bob Peters to play Bartender’s Choice – you’ll be pleasantly surprised with any cocktail you get. My favorite on the menu? The Pisco Sour.
2 Cocktails = $36
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(3) Dinner at BLT Steak
You don’t have to break the bank at BLT Steak. You definitely can – but there is a way to have a reasonable dinner there. The hamachi was to die for and the sides are big enough to share.
1 Hamachi ($18) + 1 Hanger Steak ($29) + Brussels Sprouts ($11) = $58
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(4) Cooking Class at Cocoa Lab
The three-hour classes put you alongside Ritz-Carlton chefs. According to the website, customers also receive complimentary hotel parking, a recipe collection, and a keepsake apron as part of the $100 class fee.
Total = $100
(5) Treat yourself to a seasonal scrub at the Ritz Carlton Spa
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Is this more expensive than going to a Massage Envy? Absolutely. Is it worth it? Without a doubt. From the moment you check in, you are well taken care of. You can get there early and enjoy the lounge (can I get an amen for some cucumber water?) and the robes – THE ROBES. Those alone are worth the cost. The scrub itself will have you feeling like a million bucks after tax. You deserve it.
1 Seasonal Scrub = $135
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