Puttin On The Ritz

Our good friend, J, is in London and staying at the Ritz, http://www.theritzlondon.com/ that last bastion of class, stately elegance and afternoon tea. Here, you will still find gentility and a sense of formality that has gone by the wayside of the rest of the world. Be assured, you will hear "please" and "thank you" when at The Ritz.

This is the type of establishment where the staff will recognize you and open the front door when you are still walking towards them on the sidewalk. Now that is service. Love it!

We started making an annual holiday trip to London for the New Year's festivities and fireworks. Trafalgar Square is so exciting on New Year's Eve. Although a formal dress code is (please, no jeans or training shoes,ie, sneakers for the rest of us) required in public areas, there is something fun about playing "grownup" and dressing in a less than slovenly fashion especially at holiday time. Yes, that means a jacket and tie to dine.

Afternoon Tea in the spectacular Palm Court is a must but reservations should be made at least four weeks in advance.

The Rivoli Bar has been reborn in glorious Art Deco fashion, rather a contrast to the formal Ritz style.

Dinner at The Ritz Restaurant is a memorable experience with many fresh twists on British cuisine. Celebrating a special occasion in this environment is something you will never forget.

While London is one of the world's great cities with a plethora of luxury hotels, cutting edge boutique establishments and b&b's, the Ritz experience is a sure boudica pick. I know J will enjoy his stay and I'm sure you will, too.

Until next time...