One can clearly understand why Montage Laguna Beach was built on land originally named “Treasure Island”. Any Pirate would be happy to sail its ship and dock at this fine hotel. Although not exactly made of gold, it’s sprawling 30-acre craftsman style buildings are fit for a King…and his family. There is a real decadence combined with a warm and fuzzy family feel at Montage Laguna Beach. Either experience is available. Wade in the private spa pool or sit around a fire pit eating smores and listening to storytelling with your kids. Your lovable pet is welcome and if you don’t have one you can visit the resident Falcon program and get a first hand look at an Owl or Falcon. Adult fare includes a renowned cheese gallery and charcutterie featuring a hundred cheeses from around the world. A private consultation can be arranged with Chef de Cuisine Casey Overton. After your meal, head-out to the beautiful Studio Garden and lawns for a stroll. The Ocean view is so spectacular that I wouldn’t be surprised if actually you did see saw Jack Sparrow sailing by his with his crossbones and sails. 

The Dorchester Collection not only knows how to accommodate us at luxurious hotels around the world, but they also know how to put on a pretty smashing runway show as well.  Sponsoring a cutting edge fashion competition with a generous Dorchester Collection prize, I was invited to watch the final showdown at the infamous Beverly Hills Hotel last Saturday evening. Sitting in the front row, filmed by America’s Top Model, I was transported to Paris, as I viewed innovative fashions and jewelry from the four designers Giuletta, Julian Louie, Siki Im, and Anndra Neen.  Let’s just say I was in good company…the judges included W’s contributing fashion editor Giovanna Battaglia; author and editor Derek Blasberg; award-winning designers Thom Browne and women’s creative director of Calvin Klein Collection Francisco Costa; Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig of Marchesa; Shala Monroque, creative director of Garage Magazine; Moda Operandi co-founder and creative director Lauren Santo Domingo; and Vanity Fair contributing editor Elizabeth Saltzman. 

I was extremely pleased with the winner “Anndra Neen”, jewelry designers and sisters (talent does run is in the genes) Phoebe and Annette Stephens. I simply adored their gold “cage” belt. A must have when you want to rock that that sexy Athenian look!

We were treated to Domaine Chandon and fruity Belvedere cocktails. Although I had to dash out to put on my Halloween costume, I couldn’t help but wish I had done a Cinderella move and left my gold slipper behind. I would have liked to have come back and seen more…but alas, there will a 2012 Dorchester Competition with another round of gifted immortals.