The Langham Huntington Pasadena Los Angeles, Pasadena

I've visited the Huntington periodically since 1990, and I've either become more discerning or the quality has declined. Most likely a bit of both. I recently took the management to task for the poor and/or robotic service provided by some of the staff, esp the night crew. They comp'd my next stay the following week, and service was noticeably better - but they were expecting me this time! The rooms are excellent with superior amenities, but the grounds have been largely ignored, the once lush lawn now parched. There's still much to like including the Japanese garden, the pool area, and the Terrace restaurant. The spa and fitness center are below average. Be forewarned, the spa is quite a walk from the lobby and pool area. Consider that carefully if you don't like walking through the halls in your bathrobe.

Insider Tip: 1. It's either the Club Level or bust! The 7th and 8th floors are acessable only with your key card and include entry to the club lounge. The lounge hosts 4-5 food presentations throughout the day. The quality of the food has diminished considerably over the years. No more elaborate seafood presentations although caviar is still served. 2. Avoid the corner rooms at the end of the hall. Their layout and orientation mean your bed's headboard will be likely behind someone else's shower!

I have stayed at the Ritz Carlton. Its an alright place for the money. However its not that much better then its competitors. For example, they do not even offer free internet like the Marriots do (last I was there at least). The food is horrible in the in house dining (translation do not order room service). The service is quite nice tho.

Its also fairly far from old town. So if you don't have a car, you will need toxi there. This is quite inconvenient (its a few miles from the center of town).

The beds are very comfortable. The room size is about normal. Its a bit glammed up and is a nice hotel but the distance from old town and no free internet really got to me. So if you don't mind either of those, I would recommend it. Otherwise just stay at one of the hotels closer by.

I spent a night at the Ritz-Carlton several years ago, and it was very enjoyable. I loved the luxurious, insanely comfortable bed, great service, and spacious room. The pool area was beautiful, perfect for lounging or swimming. Everything about my stay was of the highest quality. Plus, I spotted Kevin Bacon in the lobby. Very L.A. While you're in Pasadena, be sure and check out the Norton Simon. It's the hidden gem of all the L.A. museums!

The location is a little off the beaten track, but it's worth the hassle and the price once you sink into the luxurious surroundings. All accomodations live up to the expectations set by the Ritz brand. For a cool city in a major metro area Pasadena has surprisingly few nice hotels. Don't waste your time being disappointed, this is the place to stay in Pasadena.

Excels in doing all of the small things just right. Classical music playing in your room upon arrival, TV positioned just right for viewing from bed, free shoe shine, etc. Exceptions to that rule? No free high-speed internet in the room, relatively unimpressive fitness center.

Fantastic rooms with the signature Ritz feather beds. I stayed for work and was glad I did. The location is somewhat random (in the middle of a residential neighborhood), but the grounds are very pretty and meticulously kept. I enjoyed the balcony (I had a mini-suite).

One qualification -- I'm not sure I would have enjoyed it quite as much had work not covered the cost, though.

So yes, it's expensive, but if you're staying there, that's to be expected (make sure to include the $24/night valet parking fee, no self-parking). On the bright side, it's also quite beautiful (Picture bridge, japanese gardens), it's a short drive away from the happenin' place that is downtown Pasadena, it's luxurious (mmm... feathertop beds and high water pressure showers), the staff is friendly, and the service, quick and excellent. If you can afford the price, you're getting quality for what you're paying.