Mondrian West Hollywood

The Mondrian West Hollywood on the famous Sunset Strip close to Beverly Hills and Hollywood is surrounded by throbbing nightclubs and tempting restaurants. Santa Monica beach and downtown L.A. are 10 miles away and Disneyland is a 35 mile junket down the road, but the kids won't mind.

No signs mark this discreet, 12 story hotel, but travelers are greeted by staff members suited up like the well heeled guests who frequent this Los Angeles hotel. A favorite haunt of celebs and entertainment moguls, the Mondrian features an ultra bold eclectic interior created by famed designer Phillipe Starcke. Subtle optical illusions and special lighting intrigue guests, who realize suddenly they're waiting for a fish to float by on a hypnotic blue screen. Wait a sec: did that lobby wall change colors when that guy walked by?

Most spaces in this West Hollywood hotel converge on the swimming pool and sundeck, where the sophisticated Asia de Cuba restaurant and the see and be seen Skybar lure guests. Come evening, the terraced and landscaped deck is transformed into an outdoor living room with candlelight and futons for lounging.

While the Skybar connotes exclusivity, the upscale Asia de Cuba features an elegant indoor dining room and popular outdoor "alley" decorated with lush landscaping and flowering vines. Guests at Seabar can nosh sushi, wash it down with flavored sakis, and dive into raw fish marinated in lime or lemon juice with olive oil and spices.

This Los Angeles hotel's 238 guestrooms offer views of the city, pool or Hollywood Hills; mirrored wardrobes, scented candles and plush bedding; separate sitting and dining areas; wireless Internet access; and wet bars with glasses and dishes.

The Mondrian West Hollywood will definitely provide leisure travelers with that quintessential L.A./West Hollywood experience and in a location close to all the sights they've come to L.A. to see. And the ambience, hotel accommodations and amenities aren't that bad either.