Christmas glitz at Ritz-Carlton Sarasota

There is nothing snowy about Sarasota, Florida, except for maybe the snow-white sand beaches of the gorgeous Gulf Coast.

Escape the doom and gloom of a British winter and head to the Ritz-Carlton in sunny Sarasota for the perfect Christmas getaway.

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, has a fun-filled events calendar for the holiday season from 'The Holiday Gingerbread Open House' on December 10th where holidaymakers can witness the gingerbread baked and built by the resident pastry chefs whilst munching on cookies and hot chocolate, to 'Raise Your Spirits' a class in preparing festive holiday drinks on December 16th. Children can have breakfast with Santa on December 12th followed by a cookie decorating class.

Guests can dine on a Christmas Day holiday brunch at the hotel's restaurant, Vernona, or alternatively opt for 'Christmas to Go' where Vernona is preparing feasts for up to 6 guests including a turkey, ham and sides for £133.

Whilst in the area, don't miss a special performance by the Sarasota Orchestra at the magical Mote Aquarium on December 21st or see Selby Gardens transform into a winter wonderland with it's annual 'Lights in Bloom' beginning December 17th.

Take advantage of all of the holiday fun at the Ritz-Carlton with the Resort Reconnect Package. This includes accommodation, breakfast for two each morning and a daily resort credit of $50 for only £133 per night valid until 31st December 2010.

For more information or to book visit ritzcarlton.com.

Direct flights from London Gatwick to Tampa start from £519.70 per person departing Monday 6th of December.

Sarasota is located on the West Coast of Florida, 45 minutes from Tampa and just one and half hours drive from Orlando. The area has beautiful, white sand beaches, wildlife and a string of unspoilt natural islands, comprising what many refer to as 'hidden Florida'.

For general information on Sarasota, visit sarasotafl.org.