“Good morning sir, and welcome to the Ritz-Carlton,” said the doorman as he tipped his hat and escorted me to the front desk. After an effortless check-in and complimentary libation I followed the gentle, melodic sounds of a piano into the lobby lounge and Verona Restaurant as they were serving their famous Sunday brunch. Too bad I just ate, I thought to myself as my eyes coveted Pumpkin Ravioli with Black Trumpet Mushrooms, Coffee-rubbed slow roasted pork loin with rum sauce, a vast selection of seafood and exquisitely crafted desserts that outclassed my usual fare of tea and toast.

Such was the type of service I have come to expect at all of the Ritz-Carlton® hotels where I have stayed and this Sarasota property was no exception. Situated overlooking picturesque Sarasota Bay, this luxury landmark offers 266 deluxe guest rooms, including 22 suites that overlook either the bay, marina or city skyline.

The elegance of the Ritz has always been defined by its subtleties. Upscale room amenities, impeccably trained staff and innovative cuisine are all things I look forward to during my visits.

My room was tastefully decorated in shades of yellow, coral and green and the Featherbeds, Egyptian linens and goose down pillows are as comfortable as they are pleasing to the eye. On more than one occasion I would have overslept had it not been for the faithful “wake-up guy or gal” who dutifully alerted me to the time. Unlike many other hotels, using lightweight fabrics in the guest rooms allows for more frequent washing which, as any frequent traveler knows, can make a major difference in the overall cleanliness and sanitation of the rooms.

Other little differences that keep guests coming back include well-stocked refreshment centers, high-speed Internet access, and remote control televisions with cable. My marble bathroom had many little extras such as a hairdryer, telephone terry robe and even a scale. Okay, so I won’t ruin my trip by getting on that scale but at least they were thinking of me. And they don’t skimp on the complimentary Trevie™ shampoo, conditioner, body lotions and soaps that were magically replaced as fast as I used them.

This Ritz hotel is also the only one in the area that treats pets as well as their masters. Each dog or cat is greeted with a special welcome amenity including a gourmet treat and a personalized water bowl. There are restrictions, as you might expect of course, including a 20-pound weight limit and a $125 maintenance and restoration fee.

If there is one thing that you won’t be at the Ritz, it is hungry. Between meal snacks are available at the Bay View Bar & Grill and the Boutique Chocolate. I wandered into the latter and was encouraged to try one of their light chocolate deserts by one of their staff. Not only did she box it up for me to enjoy with a affable smile but she gave me something that you can’t teach at any school—her undivided kindness and attention, even walking me halfway across the hotel to make sure I found my way to the pool to enjoy my snack.

Dining at the Ritz is an epicurean adventure all its own. Using fresh, organic local ingredients, Chef Yves Vacheresse prepared some micro-dishes to try that represent the sort of foods served on their main menu. Some of these culinary taste sensations included: Roasted Key West shrimp with apple-purple kohlrabi slaw, Madeira-braised short ribs and lobster macaroni and cheese. Many of these were accompanied by the oohs and aahs of those around me who were likewise sampling this fine cuisine. This is one reason that this property has received many accolades including Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.

Afternoon tea is another signature event that brings in locals and travelers alike. Served in the Lobby Lounge between 2 pm and 5 pm, guests can enjoy a leisurely British-style tea served on Wedgewood china accompanied by freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and pastries. There aren’t many things quite as genteel or civilized as afternoon tea. It just lends itself to quiet moments good conversation accompanied by an acoustic guitarist or harpist.

You can work off the extra pounds you might gain here at their 3,000 square foot fitness center featuring cardio equipment and free weights. Or, you can choose to ignore the calories and indulge yourself in their Members Spa Club that recently was included in the 2005 Mobile Travel Guide “America’s Best Hotel and Resort Spas” award. Guest can choose from more than 90 health, beauty and wellness treatments including special therapy rooms for couple’s massages.

The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota is located close to several world-class beaches (Lido and Siesta Keys) as well as the Mote Marine Laboratory, the Ringling and Barnum Bailey Museum and fashionable St. Armand’s Circle. This AAA Five Diamond property has a well-deserved reputation that makes it one of the crowning jewels of Florida’s Gulf Coast.