Photo: Courtesy of the property
Arizona’s capital is teeming with awe-inspiring desert landscapes, an eclectic food and drink scene, and endless outdoor adventure, from hiking to hot air balloon rides and (so much) more. For a stay just as eclectic as the city itself, consider the brand-new Global Ambassador (it opened in December 2023!). Located near the base of Camelback Mountain, this super posh property — helmed by 12-time James Beard Award nominee Sam Fox — is a foodie and wellness enthusiast’s oasis. Read on for our full review of this resort-style stay below.
The Look of The Global Ambassador
Phoenix’s newest — and buzziest — hotel is a design-forward dream in the Valley of the Sun. Its mid-rise exterior lacks the southwest design so common in the area, and instead features an Old World-inspired but contemporary look with a white brick exterior with black wrought-iron railings, as well as elegant softened edges and arches that showcase sweeping mountain views. The interiors are equally impressive. Fox collaborated with renowned designer Judith Testani to create modern, warm, and refined spaces. As such, expect a delightful combination of textures and materials — i.e., wood flooring and columns, metal ceiling patterns, and marble. Just off the lobby, which has gray-and-white marble checkerboard tiles, you’ll find a bustling bar serving craft cocktails and upscale light bites (potato chips and caviar, anyone?). This beloved gathering spot opens into a lush courtyard with a sprawling patio flanked by century-old olive trees.
Meanwhile, each of the 141 rooms features oak hardwood floors, bespoke walnut millwork, woven rugs, and leather benches. The bathrooms are equally arresting, with marble counters, flowered wallcoverings, and beautiful brass accents. Standard rooms feature Juliet balconies, while suites have spacious, fully furnished balconies and specially commissioned artwork. Select units also have freestanding bathtubs and separate living areas.
The Vibe at The Global Ambassador
Guests and locals flock to The Global Ambassador to see and be seen. The swanky members club is already a hit among residents and offers access to exclusive amenities and a private restaurant. Not a member? No problem. You can still bask in the buzzy vibes at the other equally chic drinking and dining venues, including a posh rooftop bar and restaurant, a refined steakhouse, a playful poolside eatery serving Mexican-inspired dishes, a haute breakfast and lunch spot inspired by Paris’ chic cafés, and, last but not least, the aforementioned lobby bar. The stunning pool area is another beloved hotspot for mixing and mingling.
Who Will Love The Global Ambassador
Just about any type of traveler — gourmands, design lovers, and wellness enthusiasts in particular — will appreciate a stay at this sprawling, amenity-packed resort.
Who Might Not Love The Global Ambassador
Guests craving a more intimate, boutique-style hotel may be overwhelmed by the property’s size and many amenities. Also, budget-conscious travelers may be turned off by the high price tag: Rates can creep upwards of $800 per night in peak season (January to April).
Best Amenity at The Global Ambassador
Between the expansive pool and five top-notch culinary offerings, it’s hard to choose our favorite amenity. However, we’d be remiss not to highlight the world-class wellness features on tap, including a cutting-edge spa and 9,000-square-foot fitness center. The former offers an extensive menu of services ranging from reiki therapy and chakra rituals to lymphatic massages and much, much more. The fitness center offers spin and pilates studios — all of which provide Instagram-worthy views of Camelback Mountain. There are also two outdoor wellness decks for meditation and al fresco fitness classes. Speaking of the latter, guests can take advantage of complimentary spin, yoga, pilates, and cardio and strength courses. Small group hikes, nutrition and mindset coaching, and private training sessions are also available, as are recovery offerings like IV hydration and cryotherapy.
What’s Included at The Global Ambassador
Your stay includes access to the pool, fitness center, and bars and restaurants. Wi-Fi and the aforementioned fitness classes are also complimentary, and in-room perks include Dyson hairdryers and wellness-inspired turndown amenities delivered nightly.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at The Global Ambassador
The Global Ambassador charges a daily $35 property fee plus taxes (12.57%). Valet parking costs an extra $35 per day.
How to Get a Deal at The Global Ambassador
Check the offers tab to see the latest deals and discounts. Also, the property is part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio, which means I Prefer Members can save 10%.
The Sweet Season
Plan your visit in the summertime for the cheapest rates and the fewest crowds. Sure, it’ll be scorchingly hot, but you can easily cool off with a dip in the pool or spend time indoors at the spa, fitness center, or one of the on-site bars and restaurants.
In the Neighborhood of The Global Ambassador
The resort is conveniently situated near Camelback Mountain, one of Arizona’s most popular hiking spots. Echo Canyon Trailhead, Turtle Head Rock, Cholla Trailhead, and Elephant Rock — which offer scenic hiking opps galore, too — are also nearby. Fashion Square and Old Town Scottsdale, which are both dotted with drinking, dining, and shopping venues, are both within a 10-minute drive.
Nearest Airport to The Global Ambassador
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is just six miles away.
Nearest Public Transportation to The Global Ambassador
The 44th St & Camelback Rd bus stop is a six-minute walk from the property.
This haute new resort is already taking Phoenix by storm with its incredible drinking and dining options, ample fitness and wellness amenities, and contemporary-slash-desert-chic look and feel.