After a stressful day stuck in LA traffic and the bad luck of not finding the perpetual California sun on my trip there is nothing better than coming to find refuge in the calm and beautiful Marina Del Rey, more precisely at the Ritz-Carlton Marina Del Rey situated at only one mile from Venice Beach and Fisherman’s Village marina Del Rey.

This elegant 14 story Hotel, a contemporary interpretation of classic European architecture (listed annually on Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List and Travel and Leisure’s “T+L 500”) provides you a warm comforting feeling of luxury from the minute you walk in this establishment while keeping a savvy balance of California relaxed laid back into your overall experience.

As my friend and I walked in, a little beat up by the unusual nonstop rain and clouds over Los Angeles, a very dedicated staff greeted us and led us to our beautiful room with gorgeous Marina views as a promise of a very relaxing experience.

The lobby lounge opening on the front desk provides an instantaneous cozy feel perfect for grabbing some appetizers and cocktails before dinner. The overall color scale of the room goes from warm tones of wood for the lavish furniture and leather couches, to a deep and rich red velvet couches. The overall atmosphere is enhanced by a delicate and cozy lighting. An elegant and imposing chimney gives a feeling of relaxation into a beautiful living room and the shiny striped dark wood floor makes you feel that you are staying on a gorgeous Yacht, reminding you instantly that the Hotel overlook s one of the world’s largest marina.

My room was located on the 11th floor of the Hotel, one the two keyed access floors reserved to club guests who can enjoy the exclusive services and amenities the Ritz-Carlton has to offer. If you are lucky enough to stay at the club level don’t miss the Marina Terrace and the handsomely furnished Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge whose staff will greet you very warmly.

Sit back in one of the overstuffed chairs and enjoy complementary food and drinks while taking in the soothing views of the Marina.  This is an amazing setting if your trip includes some work on the road. The lounge offers all you need for an efficient office session (high speed wireless internet, computers, printers…)

Make sure to also visit the very complete 24 hour fitness club but don’t be surprised if in the middle of your cardio training you surrender to the view of the heated pool and go trade your tennis shoes for a swimsuit. If more in the mood for some pampering I recommend you the Ritz Carlton Spa for luxurious body treatments, Eucalyptus steam room and Vitamin-C infused showers.

From the luxurious amenities and views to the acclaimed Jer-ne restaurant + the Ritz-Carlton Marina Del Rey is the perfect gateway while staying at the close distance to the main attraction of Los Angeles and the cool atmosphere of Venice Beach and Santa Monica. This is one place I’m looking forward to come to on my trip to LA.

The Ritz-Carlton Marina Del Rey 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, California 90292 Tel: 310 823 1700, Fax 310 574 4303