To her, Sequoia lodge rates an ‘A’

Regarding “Sequoia Lodge Disappointing” (Letters, Dec. 15): As world travelers, we are used to great food and customer service, first-rate accommodations and amenities galore. We are never disappointed at Montecito-Sequoia Lodge. Yes, the lodge is rustic, just what you’d expect in a national forest, but not dirty or unkempt. We’ve never seen a staff that works so hard and such long hours for every guest.

The food was incredible, available all day long, served buffet style, and certainly on par with some of the fine dining for which we’ve paid top dollar.

Five-star hotels could learn from the way lodge manager David Norbut and owner Virginia Barnes manage their operation. Both conduct sessions each morning and evening to tell guests about snow conditions, activities and forecasts.

The only thing that could be said to disappoint is the 4 1/2-hour drive. If Montecito-Sequoia were closer, you’d find us there each weekend, snow or no snow. It is hospitality at its best.

Monika Deutsche

Piedmont, Calif.