One of my favorite hotels in the world is turning 10, and they’re throwing a month-long throw-down with a twist. Don’t bother bringing a gift to help The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne (www.ritzcarlton.com/keybiscayne) celebrate her birthday in style; she’s inviting guests to this party via dozens of “ten” themed promotions as a generous “thank you” to all her fans. Ten-dollar room nights, ten-dollar spa treatments, ten diamond necklaces placed randomly under room pillows – this is no BS!

For those of you who’ve yet to experience The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne, take note this resort is a self-contained world of perpetual indulgence, world class dining, eco-tourism opportunities, seclusion and exclusivity.  In fact, the resort offers all the relaxation and vacation utopia of the Bahamas’ Atlantis or the Caribbean’s top resorts, while just a short distance from the madness of Miami.  The lush tropical gardens, the ocean panoramas, tight bodies near the pool, fabulous poolside cocktails – it’s the South Florida experience we all crave. But the blend of serenity, comfort, superior service, exceptional dining, and privacy is the true escapism and pampering we all need (and deserve). The 1.25 miles of natural beach surrounding Key Biscayne are consistently ranked in the top 10 of the coveted “Top Beach in the U.S” list compiled by Dr. Stephen Leatherman (aka Dr. Beach). Plus, the property is surprisingly approachable and relaxed, peppered with Ritz elegance and the fabulous epicurean touches that make it Miami’s only AAA 5 diamond property. And of paramount Amazing Gay Travel importance, it’s super gay-friendly, maintaining its gold GLBT standard among Ritz-Carlton hotels.

When the sun rises July 1, the celebration officially begins. However, having the most intimate moments with the “birthday girl” will require a little bit of pre-planning. June 10th the “10 Guestrooms, 10 Nights, $10” promo begins, offering ten luxurious resort view guestrooms for $10 each on July 5-7, 10-13, 18, 25, 26. Set up your speed dial on 305-365-4582 for June 10^th, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. EST. If you don’t land a hotel room, then take advantage of “$10 Spa Treatments” every Wednesday in July. Paying homage to the original spa menu circa 2001, guests can book the two old-school signature treatments: the Key Lime Body Treatment (50 minutes) or Deluxe Sundae Pedicure (45 minutes) for just $10 each (reservations required by phoning 305.365.4286).  If you want to go all out, the eleven new tantalizing Babor body and face treatments will run you full price, but they’re well worth it!

Foodies will rejoice over the countless eating extravaganzas planned. The hotel’s signature Italian restaurant, Cioppino, brings a piece of Tuscany to South Florida in the literal sense, with ingredients flown in twice weekly from Italy, including fresh cheese, spices, olive oils, and aged balsamic vinegars. Under the tutelage of Italian Chef Ezio Gamba, Cioppino will roll out a limited-edition three-course menu July 10-15 and July 17-22 for just $10 (first come, first served by phoning 305.365.4286). Alternatively, you can enjoy the fairy tale bay front setting at Dune Oceanfront Burger Lounge on July 14th when the lounge offers $10 glasses of Moet Chandon Ice Imperial Champagne and $10 Kobe Beef Sliders from 11:30 a.m. until sunset (no reservations required). Dune’s barefoot luxe vibe stands reminiscent of Nikki Beach’s pre-Chonga heyday with white couches nestled into the sand, oversized umbrellas, gentle zephrys, and trendy cocktail lists (the white sangria is my personal favorite). For cocktails 8pm onward and sophisticated Miami ambience, bartender extraordinaire, Anthony Buddle, will muddle signature Diamond Mojitos for just $10 each July 10-15 at the Rum Bar, while Group Nostalgia entertains the crowds with live Latin music.

The “ten” madness doesn’t end there. The coastal Mexican restaurant, Cantina Beach, will host an oceanfront culinary party and unveil rare tequila bottled specially for this birthday celebration. Tons of other surprises are being planned as this article goes to press. See you at the birthday bash!!!

The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne - 455 Grand Bay Drive, Miami, (305) 365-4500, www.ritzcarlton.com/keybiscayne