Arrival/Check-in: I arrived at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles on a picturesque SoCal day — a heavenly break from the muggy temperatures I left on the East Coast. I was instantly helped from my car and assisted with my luggage. The front lobby was small but elegant. Members of the staff greeted me and quickly checked me into my room.

Guest Quarters: In my room, I was instantly taken by the view. Though the hotel resides in the heart of downtown, from the 22nd floor I could see the city skyline and beyond. The bellman pointed out the Hollywood sign — a treat for a first-timer to L.A.

The room was perfectly suited for a business traveler. The glass-topped desk and comfortable leather chair faced the window. The three telephones by the desk with a speaker feature. A comfortable sofa in front of the window was a perfect spot for reading or watching the large, flat-screen TV. The bed was a plush hypoallergenic feather bed with plenty of pillows. The only non-intuitive feature was the coffeemaker, which required assistance from the front desk after several failed attempts.

My other favorite feature of the room was the bathroom, separated into three sections. The vanity, consisting of two sinks, had a small television in the middle of the mirror (it became a part of the mirror when not in use). The shower had an option for a removable or fixed rain-style showerhead. A deep, luxurious bath sat next to a tranquil blue-glass window, separating the living area and bathroom.

Services/Amenities: The hotel features a 3,400-square-foot Club Lounge with a stunning city view. I was delighted to find “mini” breakfast treats, including pastries, muffins, bagels and croissants. The hotel also features an 8,000-square-foot spa with glam Hollywood décor, white walls and chrome accents — a dramatic contrast to the classic elegance of the rest of the hotel. On the top floor a 24-hour fitness center and outdoor swimming pool offer more breathtaking views, cabanas and a bar area. One floor below is WP24 Restaurant & Lounge, the latest restaurant from celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. I wasn’t able to sample the restaurant, but I did take a peek at the stylish space.

The Experience: What a wonderful welcome to Los Angeles. The
Ritz-Carlton is in a newly revitalized area of the city and just over a year
old. Its staff exudes enthusiasm, and the friendliness and excitement were infectious.
Guests find themselves in the midst of some top events with the L.A. Live entertainment
and sports complex just outside the hotel. With only 123 guestrooms, the hotel
is almost boutique in size, with customized service to match.

GT Checklist

• Doorman/valet
• Less than 10 minutes for check-in
• Separate tub/shower
• Large vanity
• High-quality towels
• Large, flat-screen TV
• Large desk with convenient outlets
• Complimentary in-room WiFi
• Ample lighting
• High-quality bed linens
• Choice of pillows
• Powerful, unattached hair dryer
• Iron and ironing board
• Easy-to-set alarm clock
• On-site restaurant and bar
• 24-hour room service
• In-room coffeemaker
• Large, complimentary laptop safe

The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles

900 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
tel 213 743 8800
www.ritzcarlton.com