Good Morning Darlings!

Break out the sweaters and let’s sit by the fireplace. When I think cozy luxury, you know I am talking about The Ritz-Carlton.

First stop, Palm Beach, where Pumpkin Palooza is in full swing. If you love pumpkin pie and pumpkin lattes, wait til you see what this grand property has cooking. Literally.

All month long, each of the 31 days promises a cornucopia of popular and playful pumpkin surprises. Guests can start their day with pumpkin muffins or pancakes; lunch offers Pumpkin Bisque or Pumpkin Ale and Pumpkin Ravioli is a savory dinner option in Temple Orange. Desserts at the fire-pit are abundant with pumpkin nibbles and sweets—Pumpkin Cookies, Pumpkin Ice Cream or Pumpkin Crème Brulee.

Yummy!

If you are clever enough to plan your visit at Halloween, you will be treated to a fun-filled, magical, not-so spooky, sweet treat Cupcake Tea and Costume Party. “Trick or Treat–give us something good to eat!” is the battle cry for kids at Halloween. This spirited day has always been a holiday filled with mystery, magic and treats. The Great Pumpkin Cupcake and Vampire’s Blood Red Velvet Cupcake are some of the bewitching flavors. On Saturday, October 22, at 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. enjoy a day of ghostly-good cupcakes, candy, costume contest, face painting and magic tricks! Reservations are required for guests and goblins. Price is $50 for adults; $35 for children.

After you have stuffed yourself silly with every pumpkin goodie on the menu, you could take a walk (a long walk) on the beach and then treat yourself to a massage or facial at their Eau Spa; seriously one of the most magical places I have ever been. You truly leave the world behind once you enter. The only caveat – you will not want to leave.

After spending a couple of weeks in Palm Beach, how about we head north to The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans for Thanksgiving? Hand your keys to the valet and before heading to your room, stop at the Concierge Desk and say hello to my friend, Rudy, who knows everything about America’s foodiest city. He will help you find anything you need in New Orleans, and of course can make your reservations for M Bistro’s Thanksgiving Feast. This gorgeous dining room, resplendent with dripping crystal chandeliers and luxurious velvet, will welcome you like the royalty the staff believes each guest to be. I am very excited to spend Christmas here meeting Chef Vinny, who has replaced our beloved Chef Matt Murphy (who has since moved on to open his own place, which, of course, we will visit, as well). Check out this menu!

Om nom nom. Work off all those calories by strolling all over New Orleans. There is so much to see and enjoy in my favorite city. I can never get enough of the food, the people and those incredibly well-crafted cocktails. It is a dream come true to me. Mostly the people. These folks really know how to smile in the face of any situation. They are a true inspiration.

xoxo, Patti

Today blogging to The Smashing Pumpkins – 1979