It’s no secret that I love Ritz Carlton. When I was invited to visit Sarasota recently I had no idea where it existed on the map. But they offered me a room at the Ritz, so like a magpie to a shiny object: I swooped.
Sarasota sits on the southwest coast of Florida. As a west coast girl I love any beach where the sun sets over the water, as God meant it to. It’s south of Tampa Bay and north Fort Meyers.
Three things I love about Sarasota:
1. Swank shopping: Literally, it’s a shopper’s paradise. You can go for dinner and drinks on St. Armand’s circle and then pick up a fetching new sundress.
2. Luscious white sand beaches: Six islands line the Sarasota coastline and sport a surprisingly laid back California vibe, think dune buggies instead of Trans Ams (sorry Florida, but you know it’s true)
3. Circus history and culture: John and Mable Ringling settled in a stunning waterfront manse there, Nik Wallenda who recently crossed Niagara Falls on a tightrope calls Sarasota home and the circus tradition is alive and well with the Sarasota Circus. A visit to the Circus Museum is a must.
If you’re looking for a luxe property to rest your head on your visit to Sarasota, the Ritz is a great option. At low season it’s surprisingly affordable, at high season, their prices rival the best hotels in New York. However, if you are looking for luxury in Sarasota, the Ritz Carlton is really the only game in town.
I’m a sucker for a handsome man offering me champagne AND kids club registration.
In addition to gorgeous guest rooms and legendary Ritz Carlton service, the Sarasota property has a fab kids camp. Macie agreed to try it out for “review purposes only” and “wasn’t going to have any fun”.
The only downside is that the hotel is not on the beach, you have to take a shuttle there. However, many of the rooms do have fabulous marina views. Also, always try to score a club level room when staying at a Ritz. Their “snacks” count as a meal for most people and the extra service makes you feel like a rock star.
Macie and I were the guests of Visit Sarasota for this multi-day press trip. Our airfare, accommodations and activities were complimentary. I was prepared to be underwhelmed by Sarasota (um, it’s in Florida) and left surprisingly in love.
