PHOTO: © THE LANGHAM HUNTINGTON, PASADENA
THE BASICS
Name: Emilo Padilla-Larios
Title: Director of Operations
Company, City: The Langham Huntington, Pasadena; Pasadena, California
First job: Housekeeping at Four Seasons Punta Mita; I was 18 years old.
Where to next: I’ll be traveling to Puerto Vallarta, my hometown, in the summer to visit family.
A LITTLE BIT MORE
What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life?
Tom Cruise, especially as the character Maverick in Top Gun.
What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in your current industry?
I would be in aviation as an Air Force pilot.
What is your favorite book, movie or television show?
Top Gun, the original film. It sparked my passion for aviation and inspired my dream of becoming an Air Force pilot.
What historical figure, dead or alive, would you love to have dinner with?
Henry Huntington, the founder whose legacy shaped the Huntington Hotel and eventually The Langham Huntington, Pasadena. He also established the Huntington Library and Gardens. I would welcome the chance to hear his perspective on how the hotel evolved over time.
THE BUSINESS
What is your most recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it?
My most recent project is the construction of a second resort pool on the property. The goal was to add value to The Langham Huntington and provide guests with an alternative, quieter pool experience. The new pool is scheduled to open later this year.
What is your favorite aspect of the job?
Interacting with employees, guests and visitors every day. I enjoy working closely with team members, speaking with guests and welcoming visitors. Those daily connections are a core reason I love hospitality.
What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken?
After an 18-year career with Four Seasons, I left to join The Langham brand. I was initially hired as Director of Rooms and was promoted to Director of Operations in July 2022. I’ve now been with The Langham Huntington for more than five years.
Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry?
Christian Clerc, former president of Worldwide Operations for Four Seasons, has been an important mentor and source of inspiration for me.
AS A TRAVELER
Tell us about a travel nightmare.
In 2022 I was delayed for 14 hours at Tijuana airport because a massive storm affected both Mexico and the United States, grounding flights across the region.
Share a comical travel experience.
While visiting Jackson Hole, Wyoming, we had to stop on the road because two moose were fighting right in front of us. Watching them was both surprising and unforgettable — they are enormous and can be dangerous up close.
What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why?
I prefer flying because of my love for aviation, though I also enjoy road trips. The drive from Austin to Jackson Hole was particularly scenic and memorable.
What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels?
On the Austin-to-Jackson Hole trip we stopped near Amarillo and stayed at a small, family-run hotel. The elderly owner treated us like family and even ordered pizza for us. Her hospitality made the stay cozy and welcoming.