Nicole Rutkowski will be on board as spa director roughly six months when The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota celebrates its 10th anniversary on Nov. 16, 2011. But she’s already made her mark with a bevy of new products and spa services gleaned while indulging in her passion—traveling across the country.

“I’m a hotel person, and with that come travel perks,” says Nicole, who began in hotel operations and segued into spa management five years ago. “I fell in love with the idea of helping people feel better. A great spa experience really can help your body, mind and spirit. For me, there’s no greater reward than that.”

The rewards are great at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, where Nicole points out spa amenities like Vichy showers and a romantic couples’ river bath for two that you won’t find anywhere else in town.  

The Ritz-Carlton Members Spa Club, Sarasota, 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota (941) 309-2090.

NICOLE RECOMMENDS 

Star treatment: The hot new organic skincare line, Eminence of Hungary, is favored by stars from Goldie Hawn to Courteney Cox for age-defying properties. Best sellers are the Lemon Grass cleanser ($70) and cream ($85). And there’s a new Eminence Biodynamic Organic Facial from $145.

Can’t live without: “Lucky Legs! It’s a treatment for the feet and legs I get with my monthly deep tissue massage. It’s so energizing and great for people who are on their feet all day. You can actually feel it tingle as it’s working.” (Lucky Legs is sold at the spa shop for home treatments, $23.)

What this town needs: “Sarasota needs an elegant movie house like the ones in California and even Naples [Fla.], with reclining leather chairs, pre-assigned seating and great food and wine.”