Thursday, Oct. 09, 2008

L'Ermitage Beverly Hills

Minutes from Rodeo Drive, this sleek, Asian-inspired hotel is a favorite with visiting fashionistas (no less than Giorgio Armani stays here when he's in town, and Julia Roberts makes appearances, too). A streamlined, uncluttered aesthetic prevails in the 119 rooms—which, at 675 square feet on average, are some of the most spacious in town. All have platform beds and fluffy duvets, English sycamore paneling, 40-inch flat-screen TV's, surround-sound Bose speakers, and personal lighting and temperature controls. The rooftop pool, with its teak chaises and panoramic views over the Hollywood Hills, is a scene unto itself; if you're a VIP (or want to feel like one) book one of the two Moroccan-style cabanas, which come with stereos and drink-stocked fridges.

Insider Tip: Book way, way ahead during awards season—and bring your camera: the hotel is sure to be filled with Oscar hopefuls and their entourages.

Room to Book: Any unit ending in -5 with views of the Hollywood Hills.