After experiencing top-quality service at the Montage Deer Valley last winter, I'm starting to get the feel of the small (but growing) Montage hotel chain after our recent stay in Laguna. This hotel chain is, by far, the best of them all. It beats Four Seasons, Ritz, St. Regis by miles. We spent 4 nights at the Laguna hotel in February to attend a wedding. The service at Montage is beyond compare -- the nicest, friendliest staff that will go out of their way for you...little touches like frequently wishing us "good morning" and "good evening" can go a long way.

Room: We stayed in a little bungalow room closer to the beach. It was comfortable and nicely appointed, though walls were a little thin and we could hear the people's radio next door. Bathroom was large with a beautiful tub. The water pressure for the shower was a little too rough for the kids, though. Housekeeping did a wonderful job tidying up and always came at convenient times.

Lobby: One of the most beautiful and well-decorated lobbies I have seen. Large and sophisticated, though not overly pretentious. Very comfortable with great service, evening entertainment, and fun people watching.

Kids: The pool is heated and the kids enjoyed it daily, as well as the hot tub. The front desk offered them little stuffed animals upon arrival. My only gripe is that it would be nice if there was a game room with arcade and foosball (they had a great game room in Deer Valley). It's nice to have a game room close by while parents can enjoy a cocktail in the lobby. We did check out the Kids Club room but it was empty and seemed to cater to smaller children and my kids are in grade school and can pretty self-manage. The restaurants offer kids menus upon request.

Notes for improvement: The valet fee is high and the driveway did get crowded at times, though valet service was friendly. Also, it would be nice if the hotel offered daily bottled water in the rooms. They did bring extra bottle water with our room service at no charge, but this should be included in the resort fee as it is becoming standard industry practice.

I hope Montage develops a loyalty program. This is becoming my favorite hotel chain and I'm looking forward to their new openings.

I have stayed at the Montage in Laguna many times, and it continues to NEVER disappoint. This is one of my favorite hotels in the world. The setting, the service, the rooms, the atmosphere, the spa, the dining, the beaches are simply the best. Nick and Antonio provide amazing service at the Mosaic Bar and Grill, and the views from the rooms and the walking paths and parks surrounding the hotel are a little piece of heaven. The spa is one of the best I have ever experienced, and don't miss the hot/cold 90 minute massage. The fire pit is a great place to hang out at night and enjoy the view and a glass of wine. The hotel is conveniently located across the street from a CVS, Z Pizza, and an Albertson's. The walking paths around the hotel have amazing flowers and other landscape, along with benches that allow you to just sit and take in the amazing views. The beds and bed linens and the sound of the waves provide a great night's sleep.