The Ritz

Known for many superlative reasons The Ritz hotel in Paris is an elegant landmark. Angela had heard about the recent renovation of the hotel and wanted to grab a cocktail at it's famous Bar Hemingway--named after famed hotel regular, Oak Park native, and renowned author, Ernest Hemingway. Other famed visitors include Coco Chanel and Princess Diana. The best feature of the hotel I liked the most was a long hallway with small shops framed by wood. The hallway was adjacent to a spectacular outdoor garden parterre that was enclosed by the hotel. Bar Hemingway had wonderful bar snacks that included homemade potato chips, buttery olives, and slivered almonds. Angela and I had lots of fancy fun on a very special night at The Ritz.

The Ritz Hotel, London

Having high tea at The Ritz Hotel in London was an extraordinary experience. For my Christmas present, Angela graciously gave me the experience of a lifetime in a landmark setting. The original Ritz hotel is in Paris and the one in London was opened a little bit later by founder César Ritz, in the early 20th century. 

Beautiful fresh-cut pink roses were filled in silver urns along the main corridor of the hotel. From the architecture, the decor, and lighting -- it truly felt like I was stepping into a very glitzy time warp that was historic but also timeless. Part of the series finale of Downton Abbey was actually filmed in the main dining room.

I'm glad I was able to take some photos and savor the moment visiting such a beautiful and treasured space. The tea itself was delicious, with lots of small sandwiches, cakes, and an endless supply of Darjeeling. With a glass of champagne on the side. 

It's actually still unbelievable that I was in London in February. Perhaps the trip was too quick? Yet the time I was there I was very glad to have witnessed such a wonderful place and with such good a friend. It'll be a moment I'll remember fondly for a very long time. 

Next week will be my last post about London featuring a turn around the London Eye.

The fanciest coat check ticket I've ever gotten.

 

Tom & Catherine's Wedding - Part 2

Last week I wrote about the fun time I had at my friends' Tom and Catherine's wedding in Richmond, VA. This week I wanted to write about the historic hotel I stayed in as well as the wedding brunch that was held the morning after on New Year's day. The Linden Row Inn is a hotel that was comprised of several attached row houses that was eventually turned into a hotel. I stayed in a small detached room on the backside of the main row house structure.

The breakfast reception was held at a restaurant called Pasture that was within walking distance from my hotel. Pasture was perfect for a hearty brunch after a late night of dancing. My friends Ryan and Samantha both gave excellent speeches to Tom and Catherine. Ryan reminisced about funny and embarrassing moments we shared with Tom in high school. I had a really wonderful time in Richmond with my friends and celebrating Tom and Catherine. It was definitely a remarkable way to kick off the new year that I'll remember for a long time to come.