Photo Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Hotels & Resorts

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company confirmed that its first hotel in Israel will open officially in late 2013. The Ritz-Carlton, Herzliya, which is located in a residential seafront town north of Tel Aviv, will be the first global luxury branded hotel in the country, according to the deluxe hotelier. The 12-story, 197-room hotel includes 82 suites, an elaborate spa and fitness center, and a restaurant (the Herbert Samuel that features Yonathan Roshfeld as executive chef.

The hotel and was designed by a collection of internationally recognized architects and designers. Rani Ziss Architects Ltd. designed the property and New York-based interior design firm Studio Gaia created the interiors. Israeli studio Gad Halperin created the lobby and the restaurant concepts

"We are delighted to be opening this exceptional seafront property at a time of historic growth in incoming tourism to Israel. Global travelers will now have the opportunity to enjoy The Ritz-Carlton award- winning service and experience here as we establish the definitive luxury experience in Israel," said Herve Humler, president and chief operations officer.

The hotel is in a vibrant Mediterranean city that has historic cultural sights, Bauhaus architecture, and a diverse cafe and restaurant culture. It is both a foodie’s paradise and an area that is a frequent destination for business travelers. The property also includes 4,500 square feet of meeting space, which is usable for business events and social gatherings. "The Ritz-Carlton will bring its legendary service standards to Israel and offer the global affluent traveler a destination for both leisure and business in Herzliya,” said Humler.