Date: January 17, 2000
Dear Joel,
My mother's 75th Birthday is coming up in a month and a half. She has
traveled all over the world extensively. One thing she has not done which
she won't do for herself is stay at the Ritz-Carlton, because it is pricey.
I would like to take her either to the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel or the Ritz
in Palm Springs. I am ready to book, but I was curious if there was a way to
save or find a special package or something. I am aware of the prices, since
I have logged on to each hotel site. It would be nice to find a package or
reduced price from the rack rate. After all, I would like to be able to
afford dinner as well. Any help you can give me I would greatly appreciate.
Sincerely,
Hi Judi,
Thanks for this great question. I have stayed at both of these properties
and can assure you that you will enjoy either one. You have done your
research and that is the first step toward receiving luxury at a discount.
Your next step should be to call both properties directly (Laguna Niguel
949-240-2000, Rancho Mirage 619-321-8282), and inquire as to what specials or
discounts they might offer during the time period of your visit. In
addition, you might mention that this is a special occasion and ask if there
are any upgrades available. For example, on one occasion when I first
checked into the Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel, I was in a room with a
partial view. I called the front desk and asked to be changed, which I
into a beautiful room directly overlooking the white, sand-crashing waves
and beautiful Pacific Ocean. Likewise, the Ritz-Carlton in Rancho Mirage has
rooms with nice garden views or rooms that offer incredible vistas of the
desert valley. Other types of upgrades that will enhance your trip are a
suite, which will give your Mom a felling of elegance and grandeur, or the
Club Floor, which can save you money on breakfast, mid-day snacks, and
evening cordials. If they are unable to offer a better discount or special
upgrade when you call the hotel directly, ask to speak with the executive
offices and make them aware of this very special occasion. Tell them
that you "would appreciate any assistance they might offer." You can even
ask if they would put a special bottle of champagne, wine, or basket of fruit
in the room for your this will make her feel extra special. Further, when you
check in you will want to inform the front desk representative of the
occasion and confirm any special upgrades at that time. You might also be
interested in the Ritz-Carlton in Marina Del Rey (310-823-1700) or the
Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel in Pasadena (818-792-6613). Both of these
properties are also very nice.
Wish your Mom a happy birthday and let me know how it works out for you.
Date: January 17, 2000
Dear Joel,
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my inquiry. You have some
wonderful suggestions, which I am going to try. I will also check at the
other properties. I had heard nothing of either. I have only lived here
for a little over a year.
I will let you know what I come up with. Thank you for being as concerned
as I, that it is done right for "Mom." There aren't too many other firsts
you can give someone of that age. For her, this is as special as wedding
plans.
Successfully yours,
From: Judi Kamhoot
To: Penny Pincher
Subject: Mom and Ritz Carlton
Judi Kamhoot
Joel
From: Judi Kamhoot
To: Penny Pincher
Subject: Re: Mom and Ritz Carlton
Judi Kamhoot
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