What is it? The Langham Huntington Hotel & Spa, nestled in more than nine hectares of grounds in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, in Pasadena, California, has been a popular winter retreat for wealthy Americans for almost a century.
So it has history? Lots of it, but the facilities are right up to date. It's not cheap but the service style is informal and friendly, while still satisfying Asian standards of efficiency.
What about the rooms? There are 380, including 38 suites. There are cottages spread around the grounds but if you want to be closer to the heart of the place, check into the Club Levels and let the concierges in the private lounge look after you. If money is no object, you can't beat the views from the presidential Tournament of Roses suite.
How about the food? The Michelin-starred Dining Room offers 'modern American' cuisine and there is a great wine list of Californian favourites. For something less formal, head to the Terrace restaurant for some comfort food, or try Langham's signature high tea, served in the lobby lounge.
How about pampering? The 11,000 sq ft Huntington Spa offers various massages, ayurvedic treatments, facials and salon services in 16 private rooms. As well as an outdoor heated pool, the property boasts tennis courts, scenic cycling routes and jogging tracks, and a nearby 18-hole golf course was designed by Jack Nicklaus.
What's the bottom line? Rooms start from US$249.
