A wise man once said, “If you want to have a fabulous life, surround yourself with fabulous people.” Ok, I said that. I’m surely not wise, but isn’t it true? My dear friend Jenn (who you will meet soon as a contributor to TYL) is my extra fabulous friend that I am happy to have in my corner. When I am out of inspiration and ideas, she happily jumps in with her brilliance. Recently she reminded me that I don’t have to sit home alone on a Saturday while my better half plays golf. When it’s Tee Time for him, it’s Tea Time for me! Jenn—this one’s for you!

If you attribute “taking tea” to something only for the English, think again. You can find tea salons in most large cities –we have several in Los Angeles. But, few do it better than the Peninsula Hotel. The “Royal Tea” is situated in their Living Room amongst overstuffed sofas and a classical harpist. I was seated at a table with my three friends. Within seconds, the server had rushed over with three huge pillows to put behind our backs. Fine hotels across the world have tea, but my favorite thing about the Peninsula is that it is sophisticated, yet affordable. For $28, you choose from a variety of loose-leaf teas and a three-tiered stand full of delicious tea sandwiches, desserts and scones with clotted cream. Make a reservation–they have two seatings everyday: 2:30PM and 5:00PM.

I have thrown wedding showers and small birthday gatherings here through the years, but I needed to be reminded that “taking tea” is much more than just dressing up at a fancy place and having tea. It’s about stopping the rat race for an afternoon and connecting with friends. While I chose to make this a girls’ day out, this isn’t just for the ladies. Guys–put down your golf clubs and take your lady out for tea. It will most certainly be par for the course.

Beverly Hills Hotels Peninsula Hotel Tea