My mother always says a change is better than a rest. With that in mind, and very much in need of some downtime, I booked myself into the newly opened Le Merigot Santa Monica Beach hotel. This seemed the perfect solution to my time crises, enabling me to enjoy a change without giving up my limited time to travel. The hotel is situated in Santa Monica, just a few steps from one of the state's finest beaches and less than five miles from my home. I invited a friend to join me and planned a relaxing weekend. The resort like atmosphere of the hotel included a full service European spa, fine dining restaurant and luxury accommodations made me believe that quite often, mother knows best.

The quiet colors and spaciousness of my suite invited me to unwind. Accommodations featured lavish amenities including luxurious Frette linen, feather pillows, plush towels and fine toiletries which helped me relax. An oversized armchair provided the perfect spot for reading. The bed was so comfortable, I would have been perfectly content to spend the day lounging in it. Room service was always available for a meal or a snack. My suite featured a huge terrace over looking the Pacific Ocean where I indulged in private, romantic late-morning breakfasts and a candlelit supper.

I enjoyed using the Butler Express, a thoughtful and convenient program developed by Le Merigot, allowing me to dial one number on their in-room telephone to make service requests. One call did it all. It was like having my own private butler to provide wake-up calls, spa appointments, luggage pick and delivery, and housekeeping needs. Special services included 24 hour mending and pressing of clothing, complimentary shoe shine, morning paper, and upon request, the packing and unpacking of luggage. Thanks, but I prefer to do that myself.

I knew the best way to get into a mind-set of rejuvenation and relaxation was to visit Le Merigot's 5,500 square foot spa. The health club featured Cybex cardio and strength building exercise machines, a eucalyptus steam room, a redwood sauna and a delightful outdoor pool The latest in innovative fitness classes offered Bliss, Power and Relaxation, Yoga, kick-boxing, Aquatics and Pilates. I decided to pass and opted for passive pampering. It was difficult to choose which type I massage I preferred: Swedish, Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, Aromatherapy Massage or Reflexology. Eventually I chose the signature body treatment of Hot Stone Massage, smooth, warmed stones which penetrated my tense muscles. . The spa offered not just your ordinary manicures and pedicures, but foot relief treatments and silky hand treatments. I was being spoiled and loving every minute of it. The spa provided an oasis of tranquility and an opportunity for me to indulge myself.

When not dining in the privacy of my suite, I reserved a table at Cezanne, the hotel's main dining room. Decorated in rich bronze and azure, Cezanne offered an elegant ambience for fine dining where French cuisine with an Asian influence was the specialty. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and a buffet Sunday brunch were offered providing memorable dining experiences. The relaxed setting of Le Troquet lobby bar, combined with the outdoor terrace was an excellent choice for after dinner drinks.

Within easy walking distance of Le Merigot, I enjoyed the lively Third Street Promenade and trendy Main Street. I stopped at some charming outdoor cafes, shopped at fashionable boutiques and viewed close-by museums and galleries. I took a walk on the historic Santa Monica Pier, sauntered along the colorful Venice boardwalk and strolled down the pathway along the beautiful Palisades Park overlooking the Pacific. It was just a short walk back to the hotel for a peaceful night of slumber.

Next morning I was ready for re-entry. I had heeded mother's advice, and she was right.

For information

Le Merigot
A member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts Worldwide
1740 Ocean Avenue
Santa Monica CA 90401
800/926-9524
www.lemerigothotel.com