As a young child in rural Kansas, I have vivid memories of my mom, her coffee, and the television airing the annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, each New Year’s Day. We’d marvel at the floats made completely out of flowers, leaves, fruits, vegetables, nuts and other natural materials. Her eyes would widen and her amazement grew with every float that passed, each one seemingly more elaborate than the one before. In between admiration and bewilderment, she’d say things like, “Do you understand how many rhododendrons it takes to cover that dragon’s body?” and, “Look! They used cinnamon to create that incredible orangutan!”

And while the years have passed and we haven’t yet made our way to Pasadena (Seriously, Mom, what are we waiting for?), I couldn’t wait to to attend the 20th annual GT Tested Awards held at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena. With over 100 years of history, the Langham boasts 23 acres of lush, California greenery and reminds me somewhat of The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It’s elegant and refined, with exquisite views and luxurious touches throughout the property. The hallways, the ceilings, the chandeliers and the attention to detail are magnificent; I heard several attendees of the GT Tested Awards comment on how beautiful the venue looked for the holidays.

Fully decked out for Christmas, each corner of the hotel had a special level of charm that elevated the hotel’s holiday aesthetic. But the lobby housed a special tree paying homage to the Tournament of Roses Parade, held in Pasadena since 1890.

Vintage programs, Christmas ornaments of the Tournament House, an old-school football and, of course, roses, adorned the holiday tree nearest the check-in desk. Additionally, a large grandfather clock stood adjacent to the tree, offering a wink to the Rose Bowl, known as “The granddaddy of them all.” The fairy-tale like atmosphere seemed groomed for an unexpected visit from the Rose Queen and the ladies of the Rose Court, softly smiling and waving as they posed next to the tree for photos.

While I tried to see a glimpse of the floats or even tour the Rose Bowl stadium while in town, neither opportunity was in the cards for me this year. However, the GT Tested Awards were as elegant as any Rose Queen and as striking as any orchid-covered parade float.

I was also humbled to receive this year’s Globility Award; an unexpected surprise from the leaders and my colleagues at Global Traveler. Accepting the award surrounded by the Globility Advisory Board was honoring and appreciated more than I can express.

Perhaps Pasadena and the Tournament of Roses Parade will be a part of my future travels. Until then, the coffee, the parade and the colorfully embellished commentary from my mother and I continue to be part of our New Year’s mornings.

— Carrie Cox, account executive