2006 marks the centennial of one of the world’s finest hotels: The Ritz. The hotel is located in bustling Piccadilly, where you’ll be near the 19th-century Burlington Arcade, the Royal Academy of Arts, and of course, Piccadilly Circus. The opulent Louis XVI style of The Ritz is evident in every inch of the décor. There are two staff members for every guest room, which means that you’ll never want for assistance. Though each room is distinctive, they have certain elements in common. The color scheme of the décor is actually one of the signature elements of The Ritz. Against an ivory background, peach, pink, yellow and blue create an unmistakably regal French atmosphere. The fabrics are all lush, heavy and distinctive. Twenty-four carat gold leaf gilds the fixtures, walls and ceilings. Champagne afternoon tea at The Palm Court is not to be missed, nor is dinner in the evening at The Ritz Restaurant. Perhaps the additional facility that makes The Ritz most exciting for some travelers is The Ritz Club. This private casino is housed in the erstwhile ballroom of the Ritz, and is one of the coolest places in London. Playing even a hand of cards here gives you exclusive bragging rights and a great story to tell.