After several weeks on the road, the good life at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles was no doubt a divine intervention (www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/LosAngeles, 213.743.8800). Instead of packing my schedule with a zillion downtown adventures, I chose to experience the Ritz inside and out and spice up the evening with the Lakers game next door.
I began my morning with a swim on the hotel’s rooftop pool, and an extended hot tub session to combat the chilly breeze. I then met friends for lunch at Kerry Simon’s highly acclaimed L.A. Market Restaurant (www.lalive.com/eat/lamarket, 213.743.8800), located on the lobby level of the adjacent JW Marriott. 
Simon’s fresh comfort creations, like my “LA market green salad” with crispy shallots, shaved asparagus, poached organic egg, and topped with rosemary grilled shrimp, epitomize the farm to table trends of modern American cooking.
A few cocktails later, it was an afternoon of much deserved R&R at the Ritz’s first-class pampering palace. The sparkling snow-white spa provides the full throttle fabulous spa experience. The vanguard relaxation room boasts oversized reclining chairs and frilly, draped couches for delicious tranquility before and after treatments. The Eucalyptus steam room facilitates the ultimate in stress relief. The treatment rooms are stylish and cozy, unlike the stale, cosmetology office-types I’ve seen in way too many hotels.
Indeed, I was ready to conquer the world after my 80-minute deep tissue. So I took this positive energy and planned the activities of my final two days in L.A. On the agenda – a quick return to Beverly Hills for drinks at the Polo Lounge and a full day and night along one of California’s lesser-known shorelines, Redondo Beach.
Private, curtained-off day beds at the Ritz-Carlton spa … decadent!
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