By Naples Daily News staff

Less than one half of 1 percent of hotels worldwide make the cut. But Naples now has two prestigious Five Diamond hotels: The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, and The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, on Vanderbilt Beach. The dining room at The Ritz- Carlton, Naples, also earned a Five Diamond rating.

Out of 50,000 properties inspected and reviewed by AAA, there are only 82 Five Diamond hotels and 55 restaurants.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, has made the Five Diamond list for 17 consecutive years and it's the first time for the Golf Resort.

"It's definitely a reflection on the service the ladies and gentlemen give," said Suzanne Willis, area director of public relations for the Ritz.

Anonymous inspectors check out the hotels and restaurants, and rigorously inspect potential newcomers to the list with two or three visits.

Winners were announced Monday evening at a banquet at The Breakers in Palm Beach. The AAA ratings began in 1937 and the current Five Diamond system was launched in 1977.

"As the industry and guests continue to raise the bar on expectations for these properties, the properties continue to meet the challenge," Michael Petrone, director of AAA Tourism Information Development, said in a statement. In 2003, AAA instituted new guidelines for lodgings and is revising their standards for restaurants.

"The quality of service and facilities is very exacting for this level of achievement," said Petrone. "We are convinced that these properties will exceed guest expectations."

Willis gives all credit to the staff, which will get to enjoy a celebration party on Thursday at the Golf Resort.

"We are thrilled and very honored," she said.