With the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games coming to a close this weekend, why not throw your own closing ceremonies party with a Gold Cocktail?

Gold Cocktail recipe:

-2  1/2 oz Vodka
-1 1/2 oz Malibu Coconut Rum
-1 tsp shredded coconut
- Coconut flakes (for garnish)
-Edible gold powder (available at bakery/cake decorating outlets)

First, coat the bottom of a martini glass with the edible gold powder. Combine the remaining ingredients into an ice filled martini shaker, shake well and strain. If you like, add a little more gold powder to deepen the color and sprinkle with coconut flakes.

Since the first Summer Olympics in Athens in 1896, countries around the world have hosted the games and cheered the athletes on. And if you are a real Olympic fan, check out some of these great host cities of the past along with some amazing hotels where you can get your own Gold Cocktail:

Tokyo, Japan: Summer Olympics 1964
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo:
Consistently rated as one of the finest hotels in all of Asia, the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is a exquisitely designed luxury hotel located in the rich historical district of Nihonbashi in one of the most vibrant cities on earth. Each suite has amazing views of the city across Tokyo Bay or towards the Imperial Palace. And if you love great cuisine, choose from one of nine great restaurants and bars right on the property.

Stockholm, Sweden: Summer Olympics 1912
Hotel Diplomat:
If you have never been to Stockholm, Hotel Diplomat is the perfect hotel to book your stay for the magnificent waterfront views that showcases the pristine beauty of the city. The hotel is a classic art nouveau building located right downtown in the fashionable Strandvagen. This is a great starting point to explore Stockholm and all it has to offer.

London, United Kingdom: Summer Olympics 1908, 1948 and soon for 2012
High Road House:
The High Road House is a luxury hotel and private members’ club located in the heart of Chiswick, West London. Chic and intimate, this 14 room hotel has a comfy, homely feel complete with a luxury game room, large sofa bar and playground lounge area perfect for screenings, presentations and meetings.

Mexico City, Mexico: Summer Olympics 1968
Distrito Capital:
Occupying five floors of a building in the Santa Fe area of Mexico City, Distrito Capital offers amazing views of the city from every side. And if you love all things unique, soak in the design by Joseph Dirand and get inspired by the art of Thomas Glassford “Asteroid”. Like the great city of Mexico City, Distrito Capital has a style all its own.

Los Angeles, United States: Summer Olympics 1984
THE HUNTLEY Hotel:
THE HUNTLEY Hotel is where modern beach side glamor meets urban chic. This hotel exudes a sense of luxury the minute you step into the lobby with its eclectic furniture, sleek lines and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Come here and indulge in the ultimate Southern California Hotel experience.

Paris, France: Summer Olympics 1900 & 1924
Hotel Keppler:
If you love design and trendy boutique hotels, the Hotel Keppler is where you’ll want to stay when visiting Paris. Located right in the heart of the city, this attractive hotel  is perfect for enjoying your morning espresso on your private terrace looking out to the city below.

Athens, Greece: Summer Olympics 1896, 1906 & 2004
Hotel Grande Bretagne:
Athens is the birthplace of the Olympic Games and there couldn’t be a better place to soak in the city then the Hotel Grand Bretagne. You can view the original Olympic Stadium as you lounge by the pool, see the famous Acropolis from their bar or soak in the Parthenon while you dine on their fabulous Mediterranean cuisine.

And if you didn’t get a chance to make it out to this year’s Vancouver Olympics, check out our other Refreshing Fridays post with some great Vancouver hotels: Have a Canadian in Vancouver

I was in my favourite city recently, Los Angeles, and experienced one of Hyatt’s new Andaz hotels for the first time: Andaz West Hollywood. I’d heard such great things about Andaz Liverpool Street in London, but was still not fully able to imagine how the famed 70s “Riot Hyatt” on Sunset could be transformed into a high-end travelers retreat.

I was very pleasantly surprised. There were so many things I loved about Andaz West Hollywood!

For starters, the check-in experience was fantastic. Throughout my many travels, I don’t think I’ve ever gone out of my way to tell anyone how much I enjoyed check-in – let alone write about it. Andaz has a new check-in concept. When you enter the hotel you notice there is something missing – a front desk!

nstead of standing there wondering what to do, as you might envision me doing, I was quickly greeted by an Andaz Host who sat me down in a comfy leather sofa and asked me if I’d care for a drink. Of course I did! I’d been travelling! My husband and I sat down to a lovely glass of wine each (with a big pour might I add) while the same gentleman checked us in using a small computer-like device. This was such a nice change from the norm!

No standing impatiently at the counter with luggage in tow.

In no time, we were whisked to our room where we were please to learn that Andaz has not jumped onto the nickel-and-diming wagon that some hotels are still on. So many things that guests are used to paying for – but annoyed by – are complimentary at Andaz.

For instance, all non-alcoholic mini-bar beverages are complimentary! Also complimentary, is Wi-Fi. Nice! Logging in was hassle free on both our iphones and my laptop.

As we were shown to our room we were also invited to return to the lobby for complimentary happy hour each evening, and told that coffee, fruit and croissants would be waiting for us (again – complimentary) in the lobby every morning. We were in heaven! It’s funny how nice touches like these can make you feel so welcome, and at home!

Naturally, after enjoying a second glass of wine during happy hour, we wanted to stick around Andaz. Why leave a place that had made us feel so valued? We decided to invite some friends and enjoyed some fabulous Southwestern French cuisine at RH.

Dinner at RH was a huge highlight for sure! Everyone at the table was wowed by their meal. The mushroom soup was amazing, and the chocolate cake is something we are all still talking about. My husband tried the duck confit (per the Manager’s recommendation) and he thought it was amazing. It’s no surprise this was an over-the-top dining experience; RH’s Executive Chef, Sebastien Archambault, has showcased his talents at several Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe.

Try Andaz West Hollywood for yourself and, like me, you’ll feel like a guest in someone’s home.

Or, if your favourite city happens to be the Big Apple, try out one of Andaz’s great new hotels in New York that are opening soon: Andaz Wall Street (opens January 2010) and Andaz Fifth Avenue (opens spring 2010).

I know I’ll be there.

Check out some more photos of this gorgeous hotel in Los Angeles:

Sitting Area at Andaz West Hollywood

Exterior of the Andaz West Hollywood in L.A.

RH Restaurant at Andaz Hotel in L.A.

Pool Area at the Andaz West Hollywood

Hollywood is famed for its cultural identity as the historical center for movie stars and the motion picture industry. Often associated with glamour, sophistication and luxury, every party could use a little Hollywood flair.

The cocktail pushed its way into the mainstream with the help of early Hollywood cinema which cemented it into our culture.  And like most people in Hollywood, the Hollywood Cocktail is an interesting mix of flavors that just seem to work well together.

How to make your own Hollywood Cocktail:

-1 ½ oz Vodka
-1/2 ox black raspberry liquor
-dash of pineapple juice
-Raspberries or Pineapples for garnish

Pour your ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Where to find the perfect Hollywood Cocktail:

Andaz West Hollywood:
The Andaz West Hollywood is committed to bringing you the latest in style, service and high-touch innovation. Find yourself with a front row seat to one of the most famed walkways in the world, and the most exciting night life that lasts from Sunset till sunrise.

The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills:
If you’re looking for the ultimate boutique experience in Beverly Hills, you are sure to find it at the Mosaic Hotel. The Mosaic has 49 guest rooms and five suites, and is right off of Rodeo Drive. You won’t get closer to Beverly Hills’ best shopping and attractions than here!

Thompson Beverly Hills:
Also next to Rodeo Drive is the gorgeous Thompson Beverly Hills, a lovely boutique hotel of 107 rooms. This hotel is a perfect example of Californian modernism design, and is actually home to the West Coast’s first Bond St Sushi Restaurant.

The Sunset Tower Hotel:
Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe all stayed at The Sunset Tower Hotel, and once you go there, you’ll see why. This classically Hollywood Art Deco hotel is spacious, boasts excellent views and has a fabulous spa – perfect for the diva in each and every one of us.

Terranea Resort:
Located just south of LA near Hollywood is the Terranea Resort which is dramatically poised above the Pacific Ocean and known as California’s premier coastal resort destinations. And this Christmas, come and spend your holiday at the resort and enjoy either a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day brunch for two included in their “Our First Christmas Together” package.

Montage Beverly Hills:
Ideal of business or leisure travelers, Montage Beverly Hills is just steps from Rodeo Drive (where some of the world’s best boutiques can be found). We love the Spanish Colonial exterior, and we know you will too.

SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills:
Furnished with designs by legendary architect Philippe Starck, lovers of fine design will really enjoy the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills. Every detail has been taken care of at this lovely hotel.

The Huntley Hotel:
If a dramatic view is what you’re looking for during your stay in Santa Monica, The Huntley Hotel may be for you. Whether it’s the mountains, the city or the ocean, this hotel is the ultimate retreat in Southern California.

Sunset Marquis:
If you’ve always wanted to stay right near the Sunset Strip, then Sunset Marquis is definitely the place for you. Guests will enjoy spacious suites, luxurious amenities and some true Hollywood charm at this lovely hotel in West Hollywood.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel:
Famed for being the birthplace of the Academy Awards the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is now the place where old Hollywood and young Hollywood entwine. Complete with a Marilyn Monroe suite, gable and Lombard penthouse, an historical lobby with library bar, poolside cabana and 24 hour room service and concierge makes this a place where your every desire will surely be met.

Palihouse Holloway:
Choose from 36 spacious guest residence and make yourself at home in the heart of West Hollywood at the Palihouse Holloway. Surrounded by unparalleled nightlife, shopping, restaurants, beaches and cultural venues makes this luxury hotel the perfect base from which to explore.

Mondrian:
Capturing the quintessential California lifestyle of glamour, fantasy along with causal living and a love for the outdoors is the Mondrain located on the world famous Sunset Strip. Each guest room has fully equipped kitchens, large work desks, oversized bathrooms and elegant furnishings all inspired by a sense of uncomplicated sophistication.

Chateau Marmont:
Originally built in 1929, Chateau Marmont is a legendary castle-like hotel sitting high above the Sunset Strip and has played host to countless celebrities. Each of the sixty-three rooms, cottages and bungalows are homes of their own and have a gracious scale from a long gone era.

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We’re pleased to learn that SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills was just awarded the “best achievement in design” by VIRTUOSO Life Magazine – an award winning luxury travel publication – for their “best of the best awards”.

SLS Hotel Beverly Hills is the epitome of sophistication, which makes it a true fit for VIRTUOSO’s design award, and an exciting place to stay for any lover of cutting edge interior design (and fans of the brilliant French designer Philippe Starck).

This luxury hotel in Los Angeles is the product of a huge renovation of the former Le Meridien at Beverly Hills, and opened last October.

The first design element that makes the SLS Beverly Hills stand apart is its two lobbies. The Private Guest Lobby is the perfect spot for a quick business meeting or a meet up with your friends in L.A. You can spend a bit of time at the restaurant or book one of the three private rooms for a dinner or small get together.

The second lobby, called The Bazaar, is just like a lively marketplace. You’ll find yourself lost in an intimate collection of rooms and spaces (all designed by Philippe Starck), perfect for dining, enjoying a glass of wine, socializing and shopping.

You’ll find even more of Starck’s work in the guest rooms at the SLS where his gorgeous furnishings really add the touches needed to give each of the 297 rooms a chic and stunning atmosphere. Rooms are also extremely health conscious, with 32 allergen-resistant Pure rooms for guests that suffer from asthma and allergies.

Rooms are softly lit and guests will love the D. Porthault linens, pillow-top mattresses and MP3 connected sound systems.

Starck will continue to be quite busy with SLS Hotels in the future. He has an exclusive contract with Sam Nazarian (CEO of SBE and owner of the SLS Hotel brand), to design all future SLS hotels up until 2022! That will make Starck 73 when he finishes his contract.

Wow.

Three words for Mr. Starck: Way to go!

Check out some photos of the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills below and let us know what you think of Starck’s work on this hotel!

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Angelina Jolin is a fashion stylist for ELLE, Vogue, GQ, and Maxim Magazines. Her work takes her to all kinds of exciting places around the world and, most recently, to L.A. where she stayed at the Andaz West Hollywood, now one of her favorite haunts in the city of Angles.

I have stayed at most hotels in Los Angeles throughout my years as a stylist. But, by far my newest favorite is The Andaz-West Hollywood.

You might have heard of this hotel as The Rolling Stones along with Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant and the Who’s Keith Moon made it famous through their wild parties and by tossing a TV set out one of the windows here!

No TV’s were harmed during the duration of my stay, but one thing is for sure – if celebrity spotting is your thing, the Andaz is the place to be! This hotel is located on the famous Sunset Strip, and it is walking distance to some of L.A.’s best shopping and lots of great cafes. This is where the rich and famous hang out.

What did I like about the Andaz? The simplicity and personal service at this great hotel in L.A. makes it super unpretentious. Coffee, tea and mini viennoiseries are served complimentary each morning in the lobby.

During the day there is fruit and See’s chocolate, and at sunset, some local wines for guests to try!

The rooms are comfortable and spacious and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are included, which is always a nice touch.

This room makes you want to cancel all your plans and just stay in…and that, for me, makes it a great hotel!

I really ate well during my stay here as well! French top chef, Sebastien Archambault, has totally succeeded with an innovative menu consisting mostly of foods made with local produce.

One of my favorite meals was American foie gras paired with an incredible American wine. There are actually many great wines from the U.S. served at the hotel’s restaurant and it’s great, when you’re traveling, to eat and drink locally produced foods and wines.

Through room service you can order in scrumptious food if you want – perfect after a long flight (I had one of their salads).

The top floor has a nice pool with a fantastic view. You can stay very healthy if you hang out up there during your stay – they serve fresh carrot juice with ginger if you ask for it!

I’m really familiar with L.A. since my work takes me there often, so here are some tips for how to spend some of your time the next time you visit the city and stay close to the Sunset Strip:

Great mexican close to Andaz is Loteria, 6627 Hollywood Boulevard +1323-4652500

Sushi Shu, 2932 1/2 Beverly Glen Circle +1310-4742740

For a romantic drink, go to Inn of the Seventh Ray, 128 Old Topanga Road +1310-4551311

Best Breakfast is at Cora’s Coffee shoppe, 1802 Ocean Avenue Santa Monica +1310-4519562

Best Pizza  is at Mozza, Mario Batali is part owner, 641 N Highland Ave

Best burger is at Umami burger,  850 South La Brea Avenue +1323-9313000

Have a luxurious holiday in Los Angeles that won’t break the bank!

Sunset Marquis : Stay for Free on Your Third Night and Save on Additional Nights

Up until September 12, 2009, guests who stay at Sunset Marquis under the summer vacation package can stay for free on their third night. Guests save 33% on additional nights if they choose to stay longer than three nights!

Sunset Marquis is a luxury boutique hotel in West Hollywood. At 152 rooms and suites, this hotel is hidden away in a tree lined cul-de-sac and is steps from the famed sidewalks of the Sunset Strip!

You’ll feel as though you’re staying in an elegant guest house at this gorgeous L.A. hotel.

Thompson Beverly Hills: Stay Three Nights for the Price of Two

Stay for three nights for the price of two in any Crescent or King Suite at the Thompson Beverly Hills this summer, and receive complimentary continental breakfast for two days and a gift of Chef Brian Redzikowski’s homemade jam!

Thompson Beverly Hills is absolutely perfect for guests who like to shop, relax and enjoy a west-coast vibe. It’s ridiculously close to the world renowned Rodeo Drive shopping district in downtown L.A.!

At 107 rooms, this boutique hotel in Los Angeles is also home to the West Coast’s first BondST Sushi restaurant.

Andaz West Hollywood: Welcome to the Neighborhood Package

Find yourself with a front row seat at one of the most famed walkways in the world with Andaz West Hollywood.

Get insider tips, tours and guides of the strip and beyond with Andaz’s ‘Welcome to the Neighborhood’ package. Receive two pairs of Von Zipper sunglasses, daily breakfast for two, a local map of the area and a personal cocktail lesson from one of the bartenders.

Andaz West Hollywood is steps from some of L.A.’s best nightlife and shopping, and is a perfect design hotel for guests who enjoy modern interiors!

At Andaz, you’ll get spectacular panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills and the Sunset Strip as well as downtown L.A.

THE HUNTLEY Hotel: Stay Three Nights for the Price of Two

Stay three nights for the price of two this summer at THE HUNTLEY Hotel! The offer is based on availability and requires a minimum stay of two consecutive nights at the hotel. The offer is valid for Premier and Deluxe rooms.

THE HUNTLEY is the perfect place to stay if you want dramatic views of the ocean, city and mountains. Here, you’ll really be able to indulge in the Southern Californian lifestyle! Guest rooms overlook the Pacific Ocean and are designed to feature dramatic contemporary furnishings.

One of the best features of this hotel is THE PENTHOUSE, a rooftop restaurant and lounge. It has indoor beach cabanas, and breathtaking 360 degree views.

W Los Angeles – Westwood: Save 50% on your Second Night and Get Your Third Night Free

Guests who stay one night at the W Los Angeles – Westwood enjoy the best rates, guests who stay two nights save 50% on the second night; guests who stay three nights get the third night free!

Conveniently located between Rodeo Drive and Santa Monica’s beaches, W Los Angeles – Westwood has been redesigned to be modern and spacious. Bungalow-style rooms and suites are totally relaxing and comfortable. Stylish accents include a glowing art ledge and organic elements including mother of pearl, native Californian Mazanita, and Pacific Ocean color accents.

One of our favorite features of W Los Angeles – Westwood is WET, its heated outdoor pool. Here, you can soak up the sun, sneak away to a private cabana, or enjoy the warm water.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel: Receive 10% off the Best Available Rate

This summer, book your stay at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and receive 10% off the best available rate!

Who wouldn’t want to spend some time at the birthplace of the academy awards? The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is where old Hollywood and young Hollywood meet.

It’s been the playground for such stars as Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable, and it’s not hard to see why. The well appointed rooms are lofty, heaped with chrome and leather and have rich chocolate walls.

Chock full of history, any Hollywood fanatic will absolutely love this hotel!

A major feature of this hotel is the Dakota Restaurant, which is a modern interpretation of the classic steakhouse. You’ll also want to check out Tropicana, a sexy Hollywood hideaway around the David Hockney pool.

Montage Beverly Hills: Montage Sea & City Package

Guests who stay at the Montage Beverly Hills can take advantage of the Montage Sea & City package, which couples the serenity of Laguna Beach with the sophistication of Beverly Hills!

The package includes a stay for two for two nights, two 60-minute spa treatments, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. Use the access code: CITYSEA when booking your stay!

Montage Beverly Hills is the perfect spot to stay if you want to go on a luxury shopping vacation. Steps from Rodeo Drive’s world-class boutiques, it’s the best spot in L.A. for a shopping holiday, that’s for sure.

Rooms have a little bit of vintage Hollywood with a touch of modern-day luxury in them and we think you’ll feel totally glamorous staying here.

The rooftop bar and grill is definitely a big feature of this hotel. The views are stunning and you can see the Hollywood Hills while sipping on an elegant cocktail. What could be better?

Terranea Resort: Book one Room and Receive 50% on the Second

To celebrate the resort’s grand opening, Terranea is offering families a special getaway package.

Book one room and receive 50% off your second room (of the same room category), free breakfast for kids 12 years old and younger, complimentary use of a private cabana for one day at the resort’s pool, and entertainment for the youngsters while the adults indulge at The Spa at Terranea!

Terranea Resort has one of the nicest locations in L.A. Right on the ocean, you’ll really love the view for this gorgeous hotel! It’s got a Mediterranean feel and has an old-world ambiance that’s totally relaxing.

The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and have balconies with excellent views of the Ocean, Santa Catalina Island, gardens and pools. If you’re staying on the ground floor, your suite will open up right onto the grounds of the hotel, which provide you with easy access to Terranea’s Disco ery trail (a two-mile hiking trail).

The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills:

From now until August 31, rates start as low as $199 per night for weekend getaways in guestrooms at The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills. This special deal makes for the perfect weekend California getaway this season!

If you enjoy intimate, boutique hotels, The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills is perfect for you. At only 49 rooms, the hotel is richly designed with materials of the highest quality. Each room is smoke free and has all of the amenities you’ll expect in a luxury hotel of this caliber: everything from elegant furnishings to oversized workspaces.

Hush at the Mosaic Hotel is found around a gorgeous courtyard pool and garden. Here, you’ll get fresh California cuisine.

Brook Shields speaks at Michael Jackson’s memorial service.

Hotel, restaurants, tourist hot spots and airlines reported a massive leap in business and reservations over the weekend in L.A. due to Michael Jackson’s memorial service at Staples Center today.

The cloud of visitors descending upon Los Angeles is a mixed bag of people coming from across the United States and people coming from as far away as France and Switzerland. Hotelsmag.com reports that this could actually give the local Los Angeles economy a $4-million boost!

The memorial, attended by both fans and celebrity friends of Michael Jackson began at 10 a.m. in Los Angeles. The Jackson family was there, including his daughter Paris-Michael who gave a speech.

Also, many of MJ’s longtime friends (Smokey Robinson, Kobe Bryant, Spike Lee, Wesley Snipes, Lou Ferrigno, Don King, the Kardashian sisters, Magic Johnson, Brooke Shields, Larry King and Usher) attended. You can see a video of Brooke Shields’ speech above.

Some of the hotels in Los Angeles where guests of the memorial service likely stayed include:

Sunset Marquis: located on a secluded, tree-lined residential cul-de-sac, this hotel in Los Angeles is a mere half block south of the world famous Sunset Boulevard and one block west of La Cienega Boulevard.

W Los Angeles  – Westwood: Found on a quiet, residential street, the W Los Angeles Westwood is the perfect place to go to relax. This gorgeous refuge is where you come to get away from it all when staying in Los Angeles, and likely a destination for many attendees of Michael Jackson’s memorial service today.

The Sunset Tower Hotel: Now fully renovated, the Sunset Tower Hotel used to serve as a residence for some of Hollywood’s greats including Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Manroe. At 74 rooms, guests here can expect an intimate environment and lots of privacy (probably why it’s a favorite among the stars).

Shutters on the Beach: this hotel is an elegant sea-side resort with an intimate environment. This hotel is frequented by the rich and famous and, most recently, it was featured on the Hills. We wrote about it when Spencer Pratt met Heidi Montag’s father at Shutters on the Beach in May.

Hotel Casa del Mar: This hotel is one of the most luxurious and grandest hotels on the west coast. Nothing compares to the ambiance of Hotel Casa Del Mar. It’s held on to the traditional look and feel of the 1920’s and was painstakingly restored recently. We wrote about this hotel as part of our top golf hotels for Father’s Day feature in June.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel: The birthplace of the Academy Awards many a star has graced the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The lofty rooms in this 12 storey tower are modern, chic and luxurious.

Thompson Beverly Hills: Close to the world renowned Rodeo Drive shopping district and L.A.’s downtown core, the Thompson Beverly Hills hotel is home to the West Coast’s first BondSt sushi restaurant. It’s no wonder it’s such a favourite among locals and guests from afar.

Montage Beverly Hills: A grand and traditional hotel, Montage Beverly Hills is a large hotel just stone’s throw from Rodeo Drive’s world-class boutiques. The guest rooms pay homage to vintage Hollywood glamour and modern day luxury – one of the reasons we find it so delightful.

THE HUNTLEY Hotel: This hotel in Santa Monica has 209 rooms and stunning views of the ocean, city and mountains. It’s definitely one of Southern California’s nicest hotels and we’re sure many MJ fans headed here for some peace and quiet after his somber memorial service. Check out our review of THE HUNTLEY Hotel on the Jetsetter.

SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills: A great design hotel found right in the heart of Beverly Hills. This hotel is very sophisticate in design and is a lovely place to stay if you’re both a business and sightseeing trips. Read our review of the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills.

The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills: At only 49 rooms, you won’t get a more intimate experience at a hotel than the one you’ll get at the Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills. Personalized guest services, high attention to detail and massive amounts of privacy are things that make this hotel stand out.

Andaz West Hollywood: This pet-friendly hotel is a sophisticated option for visitors to Hollywood. At 257 rooms, the Andaz West Hollywood is a large hotel with a great view of the West Hollywood Hills.

Terranea Resort: this resort is both timeless and world-class and is in a remarkable setting, perfect for a relaxing sea-side getaway. It’s one of the finest oceanfront resorts on the California coast and boasts one of the best views we’ve ever seen.

Perfect for romance and family vacations, Shutters on the Beach made a guest appearance on “The Hills” on Monday night. This gorgeous California hotel was where a very nervous Spencer Pratt met his fiancé’s gun wielding father, Bill, for the very first time.

If you’ve ever had to ask a cowboy for your girlfriend’s hand in marriage, you’ll know what “The Hills” reality TV star Spencer Pratt was up against. On Monday night’s episode of the Hills, Pratt was tasked with asking Heidi Montag’s father, Bill, for permission to marry his daughter.

Pratt was no prat: he picked a good spot to meet Heidi’s dad. The eager couple met Mr. Montag at Coast, the restaurant at Shutters on the Beach, for brunch – a very classy spot if you ask us. And, after reminding the young suitor that the code of the west states that you must look out for your family, Montag asked Pratt to bond with him over some gun shooting. Now that’s progress!

Could it be that Montag was impressed with Pratt’s personality? Oh right…silly us…what personality?

We think that it was the restaurant and hotel that brought a curl to this straight shooter’s lips, getting him to drop his guard (and his shot gun) and ultimately approve the union between Sir Pratt and Lady Montag.

It’s no secret why this gem of a hotel was featured on “The Hills”. Its central location makes for some pretty easy access to Los Angeles premier galleries, museums and attractions. You’re also steps from the City of Angel’s most interesting neighbourhoods.

Shutters on the Beach is one of L.A.’s top hotels. Elegant, cool, unpretentious and boasting panoramic views of the Ocean, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who could say no to you in this stunning location.

Coast, the restaurant that was featured on the Hills, has majestic views of the Ocean. This beach front cafe has a great, fresh menu. With a classy, contemporary Mediterranean look , will you’ll make a great first impression, regardless of how much of a goof you actually are.

Just ask Spencer!

It’s the perfect hangout for the rich, famous and glamorous. Stay here to see the stars, enjoy the Ocean breeze and, of course, to woo your very scary potential father-in-law to agree to your wedding plans.

The Huntley is the perfect California escape! Located right on Santa Monica Beach, this beach hotel stands out due to its great restaurant, impeccable service and chic allure.

Sometimes you just need a quick escape, and Santa Monica California is perfect for just that. Surrounded by Los Angeles, this pretty city is just outside the big city to be convenient, but far enough away from the bustle to be relaxing.

When planning a trip to Santa Monica, we Kiwi Insiders recommend staying at The Huntley, located close to Santa Monica beach. This Santa Monica hotel is found right by the Third Street Promenade, where you’ll find lots of trendy shops and restaurants. The Huntley is totally chic with a post-modern design and eclectic furniture.

With 209 rooms, the hotel has 20 suites and one penthouse suite which cater to guests who prefer more space and privacy. Suites have breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and of the Santa Monica and Los Angeles cityscapes. You’ll love the “pillow beds” and open concept spa-type washrooms.

The Huntley is really well known for its fantastic rooftop restaurant and lounge called “The Penthouse”. Designed by Thomas Shoos (who designed such top restaurants as Kol and Tao), you will sit 18 floors above the Pacific Ocean! You won’t be able to get over the view!

Both the ambiance and the culinary treats served at The Penthouse will make your trip to Santa Monica unforgettable, so be sure to check it out on one of your evenings out.

Aside from the fabulous restaurant, The Huntley stands out in many ways. With reasonable rates, this hotel is a lot smaller than neighboring hotels, giving it a much more intimate feeling.

Kiwi Collection Insider Moira F. has recently returned from a fabulous visit to Los Angeles, the “City of Angels” and comes back with some info on a great little find that is hidden away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood’s Sunset Strip, namely the Sunset Marquis Hotel & Villas.

The Sunset Marquis Luxury Hotel is quite secluded compared to many in the area, including the famous Pink Beverly Hills Hotel, which is well known to be a Hollywood hot spot. This suited Moira fine as she preferred the peaceful relaxation afforded by the Sunset Marquis.

This hotel features Mediterranean-style villas that are spacious and modern, with tasteful decor and exceptional amenities. With some suites offering fireplaces, grand pianos, private terraces and more, the Sunset Marquis sounds like an exceptional romantic retreat inside one of the hippest U.S. cities.

We asked Moira a few questions about her visit to the Sunset Marquis. Here are her answers:

1. What is the most recognizable feature of the property?

Beautiful gardens on 5 acres of hillside property, providing much privacy and areas that feel like you in a private residence.

2. What is the property known for, according to their management?

They are very well known to the entertainment industry, fashion industry and advertising as a private 4 star property with lots of privacy.

3. Describe the setting/location and surrounding area.

Quietly located off Sunset Boulevard, with easy access to Beverly Hills.

4. Why do people come to this property: (activities, business, leisure, price, location, dining, service, etc…)?

Well known as business hotel, but ideal for leisure stays on the weekend with two swimming pools. The pricing is very good value.

5. Describe your room in terms of: style, amenities, layout, and view.

The Villas are amazing and very spacious with a large living room with oversize flatscreen TV, the dining table is perfect for 6 guests. The large bedroom with king bed and wonderful beds with feather padding on the mattress. The bathroom was huge, with double sinks, large walk-in shower with 2 shower heads and a most comfortable modern free standing bathtub with European hand shower. The toilet is located in a private room within the bathroom. Wonderful white fluffy towels and lots of them,  plus large size Aveda amenities. Additional spa pack with large sponge, loofah and shower soap for $5.99.