W Hollywood

W Hollywood has been an L.A. landmark since its opening in 2010, drawing crowds for its bars and party scene. Its DJ nights are popular with locals, and the rooftop pool -- a strip of aqua water framed by palm trees and the city beyond -- is often rented out for private parties. This property is glam from the get-go, with a modern white facade fronted by a lipstick-red W. Inside the large lobby, bold carpet in a geometric patterned, mirrored surfaces, and generous splashes of royal purple give it a bold, fashion-forward look. Even the front desks, covered in quilted black leather, bring on the glitz. Upstairs, the mezzanine level is blanketed in red carpet and adorned with black-and-white photos of celebrities like Nicole Kidman, leaving little doubt of its connection to Hollywood. The clientele is an even mix of leisure and business travelers -- and it draws those looking to be in the middle of the action.

For those looking to tap into the Hollywood scene, this hotel's location can't be beat  -- it's right on Hollywood Boulevard, and the Walk of Fame is a short stroll away. The area is also great for shopping and has many restaurants, bars, and nightspots nearby. The Metro Red Line stops in front of the hotel, which can connect with Downtown LA, Santa Monica, and the airport.

• Two-minute walk to Pantages Theater
• Four-minute walk to the Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Nine-minute drive to Hollywood Bowl
• Nine-minute drive to Universal Studios Hollywood
• 16-minute drive to downtown Los Angeles
• 17-minute drive to the Hollywood Sign
• 19-minute drive to Los Angeles Convention Center
• 20-minute drive to the Staples Center
• 26-minute drive to Sunset Boulevard
• 29-minute drive to Rodeo Drive
• 45-minute drive to Santa Monica Beach
• 45-minute drive to Los Angeles International Airport

There are 10 categories of rooms and suites at W Hollywood, with names like Wonderful, Spectacular, Fabulous, and Marvelous. Unlike the public spaces that sport loud patterns and splashy colors, the rooms have a minimalist white-on-white look. Glossy white lacquer furniture, textured gray carpets, and white leather quilted headboards give a glamorous backdrop. Swooping, copper-colored lounge chairs and ottomans add stylish seating, and throw pillows covered in a graffiti-style print add an edgy touch. The large window seats offer scenic views of the cityscape below, with the Cool Corner Rooms having the best views -- of the Hollywood sign and the Capital Records Building.

All rooms are tech savvy, with 42-inch flat-screen TVs, CD and DVD players, and iPod docks. They all have minibars, and a “Munchie Box” filled with snacks and candy. Wi-Fi, however, comes with a daily fee. Suites have many notable extras, such as separate living rooms, semi-circular couches, and full wet bars -- some have private terraces. Bathrooms are spacious and chic, decked out in beautiful white marble floors, countertops, and showers. But the frosted floor-to-ceiling glass panes with a see-through slot looking into the bedroom might not provide enough privacy for some guests. The walk-in showers are roomy, and other handy amenities include magnifying mirrors, Bliss Spa toiletries, and bathrobes.

Given the hotel's nightlife scene, noise is a frequent complaint from guests. Loud in-room parties are common, and the rooms located under the 24-hour gym are not adequately soundproofed.

W Hollywood is known for its three bars, restaurant, and rooftop pool, which are popular local nightspots. It also offers a full range of on-site features, including a spa and a fitness center. The on-site Delphine restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating areas, and serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on organic ingredients -- it also has a raw bar. Breakfast is served but is not included in the rate. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, but many guests complain that the food and drinks are overpriced. The Living Room, a bar located in the lobby, has a drink and bar menu and live DJs spinning tunes several nights a week. Next door in the outdoor space is Station Hollywood, another bar, while Brew is an espresso bar on the second floor -- guests get free cups of coffee.

The Wet Rooftop Pool has an adjacent bar, the Wet Deck. This pool is famous for its party scene and the scenic views of Hollywood and Los Angeles. Use of the lounge chairs is free, and guests can also reserve daybeds or the private luxury cabanas, which are subject to a minimum order of food and drinks. Popular DJs play here at the end of the week.

The Bliss Spa covers an area of more than 6,000 square feet spread over two floors, with seven treatment rooms, a nail lounge, and two manicure and two pedicure stations. The spa menu features a variety of massage and beauty treatments, including facials, waxing, and body treatments. The Fit Gym is the large light-filled fitness center, which is open 24/7 and equipped with several treadmills, stationary bikes, elliptical and cross trainers, weight machines, and free weights. There's also a space reserved for stretching and yoga.

The W also has a large meeting space, the Loft, covering 6,500 square feet, with a total of nine meeting rooms. The hotel's Whatever/Whenever concierge service is available 24/7 to make dinner reservations, transportation arrangements, or fulfill shopping needs, among other requests. Pets are welcome in the hotel and get a custom W Pet Bed and a pet treat, while dog owners can make use of the dog walking service (for a fee). Both Wi-Fi and on-site valet parking comes with a fee.