PRICE:
Frommer's Very Highly Recommended

Where else but L.A. would you find a hotel that combines dramatic movie-themed design elements with four-star service and an environment friendly focus? If you just want a bed, don't bother. But if you're looking for the kind of hotel experience that enhances your Hollywood vacation by treating you like a VIP, the new Hotel Palomar in Westwood is now playing. Designed in collaboration with Beverly Hills interior designer Cheryl Rowley, the 19-story Palomar oozes with elements of opulence and exoticism, from the grand rouge marble fireplace in the shimmering lobby to velvet shams and faux snakeskin chests in each guest room. Other high-end perks include L'Occitane bath products, 42" LCD flatscreen TVs, plush terry bathrobes, lighted makeup and full-length mirrors, and Fuji spa tubs in the suites. Sure, it's all a bit over-the-top, but it is fun, and that's what we want on our vacation, eh? So go ahead and book the hotel's personal trainer. Or watch 24-hour in-room yoga and Pilates on the LCD flatscreen TV. Or have James drive you to Spago in the hotel's Lexus Hybrid town car. Or sip Manhattans while sunbathing at the pool with your cockapoo (it's a pet-friendly place). It's your turn to play diva, though I doubt Mariah is sorting her trash at the in-room recycling bins.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Los Angeles 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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