Suburban Splendor: The Ritz Carlton Westchester

By:Michael Travin

The Ritz Carlton in Westchester County, a plush hotel just 30 minutes from both downtown Manhattan and Greenwich, CT, is set in a peaceful setting in the heart of White Plains. An easy train ride from Grand Central Station, the hotel provides the perfect weekend retreat from the hustle and bustle of New York City, especially catering to those who enjoy the outdoors. The hotel is nearby to plenty of golfing, hiking and biking. And, their indoor rooftop pool with an open view to the sky offers a unique opportunity to swim under a blanket of stars any time of the year.

The luxury 146 guestrooms, including 38 Executive suites, One-Bedroom suites and a 1,900 square foot Presidential Suite offers 42-inch flat-screen TVs, 24-hour room service, marble bathrooms and 400-thread-count bed linens. Suites add separate living areas with pullout sofa beds should you need additional sleeping accommodations.

For dining options, BLT Steak serves Certified Black Angus steaks as well as American Kobe Beef, Lamb, Chicken, Fish and an extensive Raw Bar; perfect for either a romantic supper or business dinner.  The award-winning wine list features both New and Old World wines and a "short list" showcasing a smaller, bistro-style selection for convenience and ease.

For a unique change of pace, the hotel also offers a "Farmers Market Trip with Chef" beginning in May and offered once a month, with the hotel's Executive Chef. Guests are invited to join the chef on his trip to the White Plains Farmers Market across the street from the hotel where you'll learn how to shop for the freshest ingredients and tips for preparing the perfect market-to-table meal.

If it's a luxury spa you're seeking, look no further than this hotel. Offering the largest destination spa in Westchester at 10,000 square feet, their peaceful retreat features an array of treatments to heal, relax and revive, including seasonal offerings and signature therapies.

For more information visit, ritzcarlton.com.