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If you're heading to The Peninsula Beverly Hills for a vacation or business trip, you're in for a treat. Here are the five things we think you need to know before you go:

1. The location is great. The Peninsula Beverly Hills' prime spot means you'll have everything you need at your fingertips. You really don't need to leave the hotel, but if you would like to shop, check out great restaurants or just grab a cup of coffee, you can find it all nearby. A Starbucks is conveniently located a block away, Century City mall is about six blocks away and so is Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York and other luxury shops. You're just a quick walk to the famous Rodeo Drive, and a cab ride away from downtown L.A. and Hollywood.

2. The hotel is classic. The Peninsula Beverly Hills emanates a regal and sophisticated style. This Five-Star hotel isn't looking to be trendy, but if you want a refined experience and welcoming staff, this is the place for you. You'll get comfort, luxury, personalized service and a friendly staff all rolled into one.

3. If you're looking for privacy, you can find it here. The villas, located in separate detached buildings in the hotel's garden, make you feel worlds away from busy Wilshire Boulevard. They sit on beautiful grounds with winding pathways that lead to and from the hotel and waterfalls and flowers sprinkled throughout. The villas are perfect for honeymooners, celebrities who want to get out of the public eye, families who want privacy or even for a group of girlfriends looking for some time to catch up.

4. The personalized service at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is top-notch. You'll find that certain features in your room have been customized just for you. From the pillowcases with your initial to the welcome amenities, the staff will go out of its way to make you feel special. If you're a regular guest, it'll keep track of what you like and don't like so on your next visit it can be even more thoughtful.

5. The hotel is family-friendly. The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a great place for parents and kids. The rooftop pool is always a hit with children, and they'll like the special attention they receive in restaurants and from the staff. We've heard that if you happen to leave your teddy bear or other stuffed animal at the hotel, the staff here will send it back to you with a letter and photos about what your friend has been up to in Los Angeles. Now that's personalized service.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ outdoor heated pool sits on the fifth floor, along with The Roof Garden restaurant and bar, The Peninsula Beverly Hills Spa and the gym. The rooftop offers a beautiful view of Beverly Hills, Century City and even as far as downtown L.A. Cabanas run the length of the 60-by-20-foot pool. At the end of the rectangular pool, there is a circular whirlpool up a few steps, allowing you to take in even better views while you soak. If you’re looking for a bit more privacy, rent one of The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ 12 cabanas for either the day or the night. The posh cabanas include a chaise lounge and other seating, along with a stocked refrigerator, flat-screen TV and DVD player and cordless telephone. The cabanas are always comfortable, no matter the weather outside; they have air conditioning and heat.

The pool is open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty, so if you’re bringing your kids to the pool, it’s up to you to look after them. You’ll find sunscreen, towels, bottles of water and other amenities, so if you forget something, the hotel has you covered.

The rooms at The Peninsula Beverly Hills are classic, refined and sophisticated. With colorful touches of pinks, creams, blues and greens, the traditional rooms feel fresh — and they should, since they were renovated in August 2011. Cream walls with white molding provide a neutral background to the floral fabrics in the drapes and canopy. The Peninsula Beverly Hills' beds have a light wood headboard and the sheets, pillowcases and comforters are white with light cream and gray stripes. Nightstands on both sides of the bed offer the most up-to-date technology. Use the bedside control panel to crank up the air-conditioning or turn off the lights with a touch of a button. There's also a Bose stereo to try out.

The work area has a desk and two graceful chairs. A fax machine, copier and printer combination is an extra perk that makes work tasks easy. The pale green loveseat with bright pink pillows is a good spot to relax, and you'll find a basket of magazines next to it. The closets are spacious, with enough room to leave your suitcase and plenty of hangers so you can fully unpack. There is a small dresser within the closet to give you more space for your things.

All the rooms here are spacious and easy to relax in, but we recommend the patio deluxe rooms, which give you a small private terrace that faces out to the hotel's gorgeous garden. Overall, the rooms are comfortable and chic, exactly what you would expect from a Five-Star hotel.

Beverly Hills is the neighborhood and it is in the hotel's name, so you would expect the design style at The Peninsula Beverly Hills to be nothing but luxurious. And it is. But in addition to the glamour you'd expect from the 90210 address, the Five-Star hotel is also an incredibly comfortable place that's welcoming. The traditional decor is regal and sophisticated, but not intimidating. Hidden away from the street, with a secluded front drive and a garden in the back, The Peninsula Beverly Hills is the perfect hideaway for celebrities or VIPs who want to escape the limelight and just relax in a beautiful environment. But it doesn't mean the style is laid-back. You'll find grand mirrors, Oriental rugs and Asian artwork in the public areas of the hotel.

The guestrooms are classic, with floral drapes on the windows, white moldings on the walls and linen canopies on the beds. Here, you'll see more marble and graceful furniture, seemingly out of another era of grand luxury. The Belvedere restaurant, The Club Bar and the lobby Living Room all have grand floral arrangements and lavish features, including marble floors and crystal chandeliers. The grand piano and tufted curved arm sofa in the Living Room transport you to a time where women are ladies and men are gentlemen. The hotel has that glamorous old Hollywood feel from an era long ago but is filled with technology and features of today.

If you prefer to travel with a bit of drama, The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers its house town car to add some excitement to your arrival or departure. Rides to anywhere in Beverly Hills are complimentary; a chauffeur will drop you off. Just stop by or call the concierge to arrange it. If you're going farther, like the airport, you can use the car for a flat fee of $135.

Chauffeurs are nice, but if you're staying in a suite at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, you can move into the driver's seat. Book a complimentary Cadillac to use during your stay at the hotel for a trip to the beach, Griffith Park or the many other attractions in and around Los Angeles. Set up with your own car, you'll have the freedom to explore.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills really knows how to do turndown. As soon as you check in, you're asked when you'd like the service, so there's no chance you'll miss it. When you arrive back to your room later in the evening, you'll find that the drapes have been closed and the TV has been turned to face the bed. The remote is placed close at hand, as are the list of DVDs in the library and cable channels. You'll find a breakfast room service menu leaning against your pillow, along with a note card with the next day's weather forecast and a card you can fill out if you need help printing your boarding pass. Of course, the covers have been pulled back, ready for you to climb in for a good night's rest. You'll find a bottle of Fiji water on your bedside table along with a glass and a bottle of NeuroSleep, a nutritional supplement meant to give you everything you need for rest and renewal. The room and bathroom have been tidied, toiletries are replenished and anything in your room that's out of place will be neatly put back, saving you from bothering with any pesky before-bed organization.

The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Peninsula Beverly Hills is simply lovely, from check-in to checkout, so it’s hard to pick out just a handful of things that we really love. Here’s our top five list:

1. The staff. The friendly staff makes your stay even better. From the bell staff, front desk team and concierge to the waiters at The Roof Garden and The Belvedere to the housekeeping group, you won’t find nicer people to stay with for the evening. Above and beyond is the norm here, where an old-school commitment to service makes you feel welcome. They’ll call you by name and remember what you like and don’t like, so your next stay will be even more customized.

2. The villas. The hotel’s villas are a unique getaway. The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ villa suites are in a garden area behind the hotel with lush trees and flowers making it a secluded spot. You’ll get all the same great services as you would in the hotel, but the villas allow you more privacy, more space and more of a residential feel with your own private front- and back-door entrances. Some villa suites come with their own Jacuzzi, kitchenette and dining room.

3. The Living Room. We love the Living Room. Right off the lobby, the salon is a sophisticated place to take afternoon tea, have a cocktail or a conduct a quick business meeting. Another great reason to hang out in the Living Room is that Antonio Castillo, the hotel’s resident pianist, plays there Tuesday through Saturday starting at 8 p.m.

4. The Roof Garden. The Roof Garden is a must-visit. Located right next to the outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, this casual restaurant has outstanding views of downtown L.A. in one direction, Century City in another and the Hollywood Hills completing the set. An outdoor fire pit surrounded by couches makes for a romantic spot after dark, and during the day, it’s perfect for a girls’ lunch or some cocktails. The garden environment makes you forget that you’re in a big city.

5. The service. The personalized service is outstanding. Have we mentioned that the staff here goes out of its way to please? It provides customized service, too, from monogrammed pillowcases to personalized welcome amenities. Kids especially love the special attention. Before you arrive, the reservationist will ask about what your child likes, and most likely, you’ll find something waiting for him in the room — maybe his favorite book or a teddy bear to keep him company.

If you're looking for a room with a great view, book one of The Peninsula Beverly Hills' patio rooms. These luxurious rooms have a little outdoor space that overlooks the villas and garden behind the main building. These have the most quiet and peaceful views. If you're hoping for a little more scenery, the rooms on the fifth floor are the highest. In those rooms, you will see the garden, fountain and the residential area behind the hotel. If city views are what you're after, ask for a Beverly suite, which looks out at the front drive and has a nice glimpse of Beverly Hills. Of course, the best view in the Five-Star hotel comes from the rooftop, either near the pool or at The Roof Garden, where you can take in vistas of downtown Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Hills, Century City and downtown L.A.

If you're heading to The Peninsula Beverly Hills for a vacation or business trip, you're in for a treat. Here are the five things we think you need to know before you go:

1. The location is great. The Peninsula Beverly Hills' prime spot means you'll have everything you need at your fingertips. You really don't need to leave the hotel, but if you would like to shop, check out great restaurants or just grab a cup of coffee, you can find it all nearby. A Starbucks is conveniently located a block away, Century City mall is about six blocks away and so is Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York and other luxury shops. You're just a quick walk to the famous Rodeo Drive, and a cab ride away from downtown L.A. and Hollywood.

2. The hotel is classic. The Peninsula Beverly Hills emanates a regal and sophisticated style. This Five-Star hotel isn't looking to be trendy, but if you want a refined experience and welcoming staff, this is the place for you. You'll get comfort, luxury, personalized service and a friendly staff all rolled into one.

3. If you're looking for privacy, you can find it here. The villas, located in separate detached buildings in the hotel's garden, make you feel worlds away from busy Wilshire Boulevard. They sit on beautiful grounds with winding pathways that lead to and from the hotel and waterfalls and flowers sprinkled throughout. The villas are perfect for honeymooners, celebrities who want to get out of the public eye, families who want privacy or even for a group of girlfriends looking for some time to catch up.

4. The personalized service at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is top-notch. You'll find that certain features in your room have been customized just for you. From the pillowcases with your initial to the welcome amenities, the staff will go out of its way to make you feel special. If you're a regular guest, it'll keep track of what you like and don't like so on your next visit it can be even more thoughtful.

5. The hotel is family-friendly. The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a great place for parents and kids. The rooftop pool is always a hit with children, and they'll like the special attention they receive in restaurants and from the staff. We've heard that if you happen to leave your teddy bear or other stuffed animal at the hotel, the staff here will send it back to you with a letter and photos about what your friend has been up to in Los Angeles. Now that's personalized service.

If you're looking for a room with a great view, book one of The Peninsula Beverly Hills' patio rooms. These luxurious rooms have a little outdoor space that overlooks the villas and garden behind the main building. These have the most quiet and peaceful views. If you're hoping for a little more scenery, the rooms on the fifth floor are the highest. In those rooms, you will see the garden, fountain and the residential area behind the hotel. If city views are what you're after, ask for a Beverly suite, which looks out at the front drive and has a nice glimpse of Beverly Hills. Of course, the best view in the Five-Star hotel comes from the rooftop, either near the pool or at The Roof Garden, where you can take in vistas of downtown Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Hills, Century City and downtown L.A.

The rooms at The Peninsula Beverly Hills are classic, refined and sophisticated. With colorful touches of pinks, creams, blues and greens, the traditional rooms feel fresh — and they should, since they were renovated in August 2011. Cream walls with white molding provide a neutral background to the floral fabrics in the drapes and canopy. The Peninsula Beverly Hills' beds have a light wood headboard and the sheets, pillowcases and comforters are white with light cream and gray stripes. Nightstands on both sides of the bed offer the most up-to-date technology. Use the bedside control panel to crank up the air-conditioning or turn off the lights with a touch of a button. There's also a Bose stereo to try out.

The work area has a desk and two graceful chairs. A fax machine, copier and printer combination is an extra perk that makes work tasks easy. The pale green loveseat with bright pink pillows is a good spot to relax, and you'll find a basket of magazines next to it. The closets are spacious, with enough room to leave your suitcase and plenty of hangers so you can fully unpack. There is a small dresser within the closet to give you more space for your things.

All the rooms here are spacious and easy to relax in, but we recommend the patio deluxe rooms, which give you a small private terrace that faces out to the hotel's gorgeous garden. Overall, the rooms are comfortable and chic, exactly what you would expect from a Five-Star hotel.

If you're heading to The Peninsula Beverly Hills for a vacation or business trip, you're in for a treat. Here are the five things we think you need to know before you go:

1. The location is great. The Peninsula Beverly Hills' prime spot means you'll have everything you need at your fingertips. You really don't need to leave the hotel, but if you would like to shop, check out great restaurants or just grab a cup of coffee, you can find it all nearby. A Starbucks is conveniently located a block away, Century City mall is about six blocks away and so is Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York and other luxury shops. You're just a quick walk to the famous Rodeo Drive, and a cab ride away from downtown L.A. and Hollywood.

2. The hotel is classic. The Peninsula Beverly Hills emanates a regal and sophisticated style. This Five-Star hotel isn't looking to be trendy, but if you want a refined experience and welcoming staff, this is the place for you. You'll get comfort, luxury, personalized service and a friendly staff all rolled into one.

3. If you're looking for privacy, you can find it here. The villas, located in separate detached buildings in the hotel's garden, make you feel worlds away from busy Wilshire Boulevard. They sit on beautiful grounds with winding pathways that lead to and from the hotel and waterfalls and flowers sprinkled throughout. The villas are perfect for honeymooners, celebrities who want to get out of the public eye, families who want privacy or even for a group of girlfriends looking for some time to catch up.

4. The personalized service at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is top-notch. You'll find that certain features in your room have been customized just for you. From the pillowcases with your initial to the welcome amenities, the staff will go out of its way to make you feel special. If you're a regular guest, it'll keep track of what you like and don't like so on your next visit it can be even more thoughtful.

5. The hotel is family-friendly. The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a great place for parents and kids. The rooftop pool is always a hit with children, and they'll like the special attention they receive in restaurants and from the staff. We've heard that if you happen to leave your teddy bear or other stuffed animal at the hotel, the staff here will send it back to you with a letter and photos about what your friend has been up to in Los Angeles. Now that's personalized service.

From a printer to paperclips, the workspace in the rooms and suites at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is outfitted with all you need to get some work done. Rooms have a carved wood desk and two graceful chairs with cream leather seats. Under the desk, you’ll find the answer to boarding pass woes, a combination printer, copier and fax machine. There’s also a Bose stereo so you can listen to music as you work. The desk drawers are filled with office supplies, from postcards to a stapler. With everything set up for you, it’s easy to turn a room here into an office, not that you would want to. But if you are traveling on business and have a lot to do, open the large French doors and enjoy the California sunshine and The Peninsula Beverly Hills room service while you work. Just don’t forget to relax at some point; with the rooftop pool and spa, it’s easy to play hard if you work hard.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ outdoor heated pool sits on the fifth floor, along with The Roof Garden restaurant and bar, The Peninsula Beverly Hills Spa and the gym. The rooftop offers a beautiful view of Beverly Hills, Century City and even as far as downtown L.A. Cabanas run the length of the 60-by-20-foot pool. At the end of the rectangular pool, there is a circular whirlpool up a few steps, allowing you to take in even better views while you soak. If you’re looking for a bit more privacy, rent one of The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ 12 cabanas for either the day or the night. The posh cabanas include a chaise lounge and other seating, along with a stocked refrigerator, flat-screen TV and DVD player and cordless telephone. The cabanas are always comfortable, no matter the weather outside; they have air conditioning and heat.

The pool is open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty, so if you’re bringing your kids to the pool, it’s up to you to look after them. You’ll find sunscreen, towels, bottles of water and other amenities, so if you forget something, the hotel has you covered.

Beverly Hills is the neighborhood and it is in the hotel's name, so you would expect the design style at The Peninsula Beverly Hills to be nothing but luxurious. And it is. But in addition to the glamour you'd expect from the 90210 address, the Five-Star hotel is also an incredibly comfortable place that's welcoming. The traditional decor is regal and sophisticated, but not intimidating. Hidden away from the street, with a secluded front drive and a garden in the back, The Peninsula Beverly Hills is the perfect hideaway for celebrities or VIPs who want to escape the limelight and just relax in a beautiful environment. But it doesn't mean the style is laid-back. You'll find grand mirrors, Oriental rugs and Asian artwork in the public areas of the hotel.

The guestrooms are classic, with floral drapes on the windows, white moldings on the walls and linen canopies on the beds. Here, you'll see more marble and graceful furniture, seemingly out of another era of grand luxury. The Belvedere restaurant, The Club Bar and the lobby Living Room all have grand floral arrangements and lavish features, including marble floors and crystal chandeliers. The grand piano and tufted curved arm sofa in the Living Room transport you to a time where women are ladies and men are gentlemen. The hotel has that glamorous old Hollywood feel from an era long ago but is filled with technology and features of today.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a very kid-friendly hotel, and while it doesn’t have children’s activities already planned out, it does provide The Peninsula Academy along with other options for you and your little ones to partake in during a stay at the hotel.

Maybe your kids want to learn how to surf? The hotel can arrange for you and your family to get surfing lessons and then enjoy a picnic on the beach from the in-house chefs. Or maybe a horseback ride through Griffith Park is more your style — the hotel can arrange that for you as well. Just check in with the concierge to learn about making these arrangements for your family. The more time you allow them to plan for you, the better. So call ahead before you arrive so things can be arranged beforehand.

Of course the rooftop pool is a perfect spot for children to relax and play. Families can lounge around the pool and just soak up the sun. Private cabanas are available to rent so you and your family have a little more quiet time and sleeping babes can crash on the padded lounge chairs within the cabanas in cool air-conditioning while you stay outside in the sun with the rest of your party. And remember, there isn’t much the concierge can’t do; so if there’s something special you want your children to partake in, just ask and your wish will most likely be granted.

If you’re looking to book a conference or meeting, The Peninsula Beverly Hills has a couple of options for you. If you need a larger space, the elegant Verandah room is the largest space available and can fit up to 200 people. It has a private outdoor terrace with a sparkling fountain in the corner and is covered with lush trees during the warmer seasons; in the winter, it gets covered with a canopy, so you can still make use of it even if the weather isn’t agreeable. The lobby/foyer area that leads to the Verandah room features a grand piano and a glamorous crystal chandelier that covers the center of the ceiling and can fit 70 people for a reception, such as cocktails or a mixer. There’s plenty of space to set up tables for food, gifts, or whatever you need to fill the space. The interior of the room features smaller crystal chandeliers throughout and pastel-colored floral murals. Tables can be set up in whatever style needed.

The Board Room is smaller and is the perfect spot for a presentation or seminar, as it can seat 20 people. The hotel staff can set up technology for presentations and it’ll place water, mints, Peninsula-logoed pens and notepads out as well, so you don’t have to lug any of that with you.

For smaller gatherings, the Peninsula Beverly Hills has two meeting rooms, the Magnolia and Gardenia suites, located in the Villa buildings, separate from the main hotel. Since these two meeting rooms are in Villas that have been turned into meeting spaces, they offer a more private setting, surrounded by the garden outside. They’re perfect if you’re looking for a more informal setting or for smaller events such as a baby or bridal shower. The Magnolia Suite can seat 30 to 75 people, depending upon the setup you want; and the Gardenia Suite can accommodate 18 to 40 people, again depending upon how you want it arranged (e.g., theater style, conference, reception).

If you’re looking for an even smaller space, rent the private dining room in The Belvedere. Here, you can discuss business over a delicious meal or plan a special dinner with a group.

Whatever it is you’re planning, the staff at the Peninsula Beverly Hills can help, whether you need assistance getting to and from the hotel from the airport, catering services or any audio-visual equipment, such as whiteboards, tabletop microphones, easels, Bose/iPod players, plasma TVs, overhead projectors, LCD projectors and much more. The delivery fee for equipment is $50 (and for plasma TVs, it’s $100). A private events sales manager can help plan your meeting; just let her know what you need.

If you're looking for a room with a great view, book one of The Peninsula Beverly Hills' patio rooms. These luxurious rooms have a little outdoor space that overlooks the villas and garden behind the main building. These have the most quiet and peaceful views. If you're hoping for a little more scenery, the rooms on the fifth floor are the highest. In those rooms, you will see the garden, fountain and the residential area behind the hotel. If city views are what you're after, ask for a Beverly suite, which looks out at the front drive and has a nice glimpse of Beverly Hills. Of course, the best view in the Five-Star hotel comes from the rooftop, either near the pool or at The Roof Garden, where you can take in vistas of downtown Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Hills, Century City and downtown L.A.

From a printer to paperclips, the workspace in the rooms and suites at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is outfitted with all you need to get some work done. Rooms have a carved wood desk and two graceful chairs with cream leather seats. Under the desk, you’ll find the answer to boarding pass woes, a combination printer, copier and fax machine. There’s also a Bose stereo so you can listen to music as you work. The desk drawers are filled with office supplies, from postcards to a stapler. With everything set up for you, it’s easy to turn a room here into an office, not that you would want to. But if you are traveling on business and have a lot to do, open the large French doors and enjoy the California sunshine and The Peninsula Beverly Hills room service while you work. Just don’t forget to relax at some point; with the rooftop pool and spa, it’s easy to play hard if you work hard.

If you just can’t refrain from checking your email or doing some work, the business center at The Peninsula Beverly Hills features everything you might need. So if you want to travel light and leave your laptop at home, the business center provides computers for you to use. Just hop on one of the three stations and navigate away. You’ll also find an issue of The Peninsula, along with other magazines and newspapers, which you can take with you. Need a postcard or stationery to send a note to a friend about your latest celebrity spotting? You can find that here, too. You’ll also see other pamphlets and info about the hotel and surrounding area. If you require any assistance with gift wrapping, making business cards, packing up packages, or if you need a translators or foreign newspapers, you can get all of that at the business center, which is staffed throughout the day. The business center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., and if you need help after hours, just let the concierge know and hey’ll help you out.

Most likely, though, you won’t even have to visit the business center, since each room at The Peninsula Beverly Hills pretty much comes with a smaller personal business center. All you need to do is hook up your laptop (provided you brought one, of course) to the multi-socket adaptor and you can get complimentary Internet access and print out anything from your own private in-room color printer, which also acts as a fax machine and copier. Then, you’re all set. Turn up the Bose stereo that’s also in your room, and get to work.

The rooms at The Peninsula Beverly Hills are classic, refined and sophisticated. With colorful touches of pinks, creams, blues and greens, the traditional rooms feel fresh — and they should, since they were renovated in August 2011. Cream walls with white molding provide a neutral background to the floral fabrics in the drapes and canopy. The Peninsula Beverly Hills' beds have a light wood headboard and the sheets, pillowcases and comforters are white with light cream and gray stripes. Nightstands on both sides of the bed offer the most up-to-date technology. Use the bedside control panel to crank up the air-conditioning or turn off the lights with a touch of a button. There's also a Bose stereo to try out.

The work area has a desk and two graceful chairs. A fax machine, copier and printer combination is an extra perk that makes work tasks easy. The pale green loveseat with bright pink pillows is a good spot to relax, and you'll find a basket of magazines next to it. The closets are spacious, with enough room to leave your suitcase and plenty of hangers so you can fully unpack. There is a small dresser within the closet to give you more space for your things.

All the rooms here are spacious and easy to relax in, but we recommend the patio deluxe rooms, which give you a small private terrace that faces out to the hotel's gorgeous garden. Overall, the rooms are comfortable and chic, exactly what you would expect from a Five-Star hotel.

You might be surprised to find out how many rooms The Peninsula Beverly Hills has — just 193 guestrooms, including 36 suites and 16 villas. This luxe property feels a lot bigger than it is. In fact, it’s really more of a boutique hotel. The Five-Star hotel already feels private, but you can get even more tranquility in the 16 villas in the garden behind the main building, which makes the grounds feel a bit more spread out. Regardless of which room you stay in, it’s sure to be gorgeous, since they all were renovated in August 2011. The fresh furnishings, carpeting and upholstery keep The Peninsula Beverly Hills’s traditional style feeling current.

Internet access is a must in any great hotel, traditional or not, and The Peninsula Beverly Hills delivers. The Five-Star hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi in the rooms and throughout the grounds. In fact, you’ll find everything you need in your guestroom’s work station. There’s a printer, copier and fax machine in one, with a cable to hook up to your laptop, so it’s easy to get work done if you’re on a business trip or just print theater tickets if you’re there solely for pleasure. If you want to get out of your room, take your laptop to the Living Room, where you can work and listen to the harpist at the same time. Leave your laptop at home? Use the Internet in the business center, which is just to the right of the main entrance.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills doesn't offer any planned activities for guests. But that doesn't mean you're on your own. If you're looking to take a day trip — maybe hitting the beach or going on a helicopter tour — the concierge can help you make it happen. Head over to the concierge after check-in or call before your arrival to get help planning your trip.

You'll find 50-inch flat-screen TVs in the rooms at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, along with a VCR and, thankfully, more modern electronics, like CD and DVD players. To make the most of your tech perks, scan the provided channel list and DVD collection menu. Stay in for the night and borrow one of the complimentary movies, which include all the Academy Award winners over the years. It is quite apropos, considering the location and the Five-Star hotel's celebrity clientele. If you're more of a video gamer or have kids who want to play, just give the concierge a call and a console will be sent up to your room.

It's hard to describe The Peninsula Beverly Hills with just five words, but we certainly can sum it up. Here's how we would describe the hotel:

1. Intimate. Although it is part of the larger Peninsula hotel family, The Peninsula Beverly Hills is really a smaller boutique hotel. With only 193 guest rooms, including 36 suites and 16 private villas, the hotel is made up of only five floors, topped with the rooftop pool and The Roof Garden restaurant. The Five-Star hotel really feels like a small property, where you can easily get to know everyone there.

2. Friendly. The staff at The Peninsula Beverly Hills goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and welcome. From the moment you get out of the taxi, you're swept away by staff and brought to the front desk. At check-in, the friendly and smiling team members will ask you a variety of questions to make your stay more comfortable. They quickly learn your name and address you by it throughout the course of your stay. Small touches like that make such a big difference. Order room service and the staff member who delivers it won't let you lift a finger — he'll bring everything to you and make sure you're comfortable before he leaves.

3. Sophisticated. This hotel exudes style and class. It's luxurious and chic, yet comfortable and residential. Everything — from the decor and furniture to the restaurant and bar — is designed with impeccable taste. Things are done well here and the attention to detail is impressive.

4. Inviting. The Beverly Hills hotel invites you in and pampers you, so it's natural that when it's time to leave, you just don't want to. The Living Room lounge is the perfect place to relax and get cozy, whether it's for high tea and to listen to the daily harpist, or to hear the nightly pianist play. That's how the entire hotel feels, charming and warm.

5. Private. This hotel attracts celebrity and VIP clientele who seek to duck away from the public eye. And it's easy to do that here, with the 16 villas hidden behind the main hotel building, surrounded by the winding paths of the blossoming garden. If you're looking for some peace and quiet, rent a villa and escape your daily life.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ outdoor heated pool sits on the fifth floor, along with The Roof Garden restaurant and bar, The Peninsula Beverly Hills Spa and the gym. The rooftop offers a beautiful view of Beverly Hills, Century City and even as far as downtown L.A. Cabanas run the length of the 60-by-20-foot pool. At the end of the rectangular pool, there is a circular whirlpool up a few steps, allowing you to take in even better views while you soak. If you’re looking for a bit more privacy, rent one of The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ 12 cabanas for either the day or the night. The posh cabanas include a chaise lounge and other seating, along with a stocked refrigerator, flat-screen TV and DVD player and cordless telephone. The cabanas are always comfortable, no matter the weather outside; they have air conditioning and heat.

The pool is open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty, so if you’re bringing your kids to the pool, it’s up to you to look after them. You’ll find sunscreen, towels, bottles of water and other amenities, so if you forget something, the hotel has you covered.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills concierge can pretty much do anything you request. The chef concierge, James Little, has been at the hotel for 20 years. His crowning service achievement? He got one lucky couple tickets to the Grammy Awards. Little and the rest of the concierge staff can really roll out the red carpet for you, setting you up with whatever you’re looking for, from theater and concert tickets to helicopter tours or VIP passes to visit the green room backstage at the Paley Center (which is just a few blocks away from The Peninsula Beverly Hills). Whatever it is that you need or want, it’s doesn’t hurt to just ask; most likely, the concierge will be able to help.

Beverly Hills is the neighborhood and it is in the hotel's name, so you would expect the design style at The Peninsula Beverly Hills to be nothing but luxurious. And it is. But in addition to the glamour you'd expect from the 90210 address, the Five-Star hotel is also an incredibly comfortable place that's welcoming. The traditional decor is regal and sophisticated, but not intimidating. Hidden away from the street, with a secluded front drive and a garden in the back, The Peninsula Beverly Hills is the perfect hideaway for celebrities or VIPs who want to escape the limelight and just relax in a beautiful environment. But it doesn't mean the style is laid-back. You'll find grand mirrors, Oriental rugs and Asian artwork in the public areas of the hotel.

The guestrooms are classic, with floral drapes on the windows, white moldings on the walls and linen canopies on the beds. Here, you'll see more marble and graceful furniture, seemingly out of another era of grand luxury. The Belvedere restaurant, The Club Bar and the lobby Living Room all have grand floral arrangements and lavish features, including marble floors and crystal chandeliers. The grand piano and tufted curved arm sofa in the Living Room transport you to a time where women are ladies and men are gentlemen. The hotel has that glamorous old Hollywood feel from an era long ago but is filled with technology and features of today.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills really knows how to do turndown. As soon as you check in, you're asked when you'd like the service, so there's no chance you'll miss it. When you arrive back to your room later in the evening, you'll find that the drapes have been closed and the TV has been turned to face the bed. The remote is placed close at hand, as are the list of DVDs in the library and cable channels. You'll find a breakfast room service menu leaning against your pillow, along with a note card with the next day's weather forecast and a card you can fill out if you need help printing your boarding pass. Of course, the covers have been pulled back, ready for you to climb in for a good night's rest. You'll find a bottle of Fiji water on your bedside table along with a glass and a bottle of NeuroSleep, a nutritional supplement meant to give you everything you need for rest and renewal. The room and bathroom have been tidied, toiletries are replenished and anything in your room that's out of place will be neatly put back, saving you from bothering with any pesky before-bed organization.

The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Peninsula Beverly Hills is simply lovely, from check-in to checkout, so it’s hard to pick out just a handful of things that we really love. Here’s our top five list:

1. The staff. The friendly staff makes your stay even better. From the bell staff, front desk team and concierge to the waiters at The Roof Garden and The Belvedere to the housekeeping group, you won’t find nicer people to stay with for the evening. Above and beyond is the norm here, where an old-school commitment to service makes you feel welcome. They’ll call you by name and remember what you like and don’t like, so your next stay will be even more customized.

2. The villas. The hotel’s villas are a unique getaway. The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ villa suites are in a garden area behind the hotel with lush trees and flowers making it a secluded spot. You’ll get all the same great services as you would in the hotel, but the villas allow you more privacy, more space and more of a residential feel with your own private front- and back-door entrances. Some villa suites come with their own Jacuzzi, kitchenette and dining room.

3. The Living Room. We love the Living Room. Right off the lobby, the salon is a sophisticated place to take afternoon tea, have a cocktail or a conduct a quick business meeting. Another great reason to hang out in the Living Room is that Antonio Castillo, the hotel’s resident pianist, plays there Tuesday through Saturday starting at 8 p.m.

4. The Roof Garden. The Roof Garden is a must-visit. Located right next to the outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, this casual restaurant has outstanding views of downtown L.A. in one direction, Century City in another and the Hollywood Hills completing the set. An outdoor fire pit surrounded by couches makes for a romantic spot after dark, and during the day, it’s perfect for a girls’ lunch or some cocktails. The garden environment makes you forget that you’re in a big city.

5. The service. The personalized service is outstanding. Have we mentioned that the staff here goes out of its way to please? It provides customized service, too, from monogrammed pillowcases to personalized welcome amenities. Kids especially love the special attention. Before you arrive, the reservationist will ask about what your child likes, and most likely, you’ll find something waiting for him in the room — maybe his favorite book or a teddy bear to keep him company.

If you're heading to The Peninsula Beverly Hills for a vacation or business trip, you're in for a treat. Here are the five things we think you need to know before you go:

1. The location is great. The Peninsula Beverly Hills' prime spot means you'll have everything you need at your fingertips. You really don't need to leave the hotel, but if you would like to shop, check out great restaurants or just grab a cup of coffee, you can find it all nearby. A Starbucks is conveniently located a block away, Century City mall is about six blocks away and so is Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York and other luxury shops. You're just a quick walk to the famous Rodeo Drive, and a cab ride away from downtown L.A. and Hollywood.

2. The hotel is classic. The Peninsula Beverly Hills emanates a regal and sophisticated style. This Five-Star hotel isn't looking to be trendy, but if you want a refined experience and welcoming staff, this is the place for you. You'll get comfort, luxury, personalized service and a friendly staff all rolled into one.

3. If you're looking for privacy, you can find it here. The villas, located in separate detached buildings in the hotel's garden, make you feel worlds away from busy Wilshire Boulevard. They sit on beautiful grounds with winding pathways that lead to and from the hotel and waterfalls and flowers sprinkled throughout. The villas are perfect for honeymooners, celebrities who want to get out of the public eye, families who want privacy or even for a group of girlfriends looking for some time to catch up.

4. The personalized service at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is top-notch. You'll find that certain features in your room have been customized just for you. From the pillowcases with your initial to the welcome amenities, the staff will go out of its way to make you feel special. If you're a regular guest, it'll keep track of what you like and don't like so on your next visit it can be even more thoughtful.

5. The hotel is family-friendly. The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a great place for parents and kids. The rooftop pool is always a hit with children, and they'll like the special attention they receive in restaurants and from the staff. We've heard that if you happen to leave your teddy bear or other stuffed animal at the hotel, the staff here will send it back to you with a letter and photos about what your friend has been up to in Los Angeles. Now that's personalized service.

If you prefer to travel with a bit of drama, The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers its house town car to add some excitement to your arrival or departure. Rides to anywhere in Beverly Hills are complimentary; a chauffeur will drop you off. Just stop by or call the concierge to arrange it. If you're going farther, like the airport, you can use the car for a flat fee of $135.

Chauffeurs are nice, but if you're staying in a suite at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, you can move into the driver's seat. Book a complimentary Cadillac to use during your stay at the hotel for a trip to the beach, Griffith Park or the many other attractions in and around Los Angeles. Set up with your own car, you'll have the freedom to explore.

The best way to get to The Peninsula Beverly Hills from Los Angeles International Airport is to take a taxi. The airport is only about 13 miles away from the hotel, and the ride will only take you about 20 minutes. But Los Angeles traffic is unpredictable — bumper-to-bumper jams and roadwork are the norm — so you might want to work in a little extra time to make your dinner reservation. The taxi ride will cost you about $45 to $50 including tip, and of course, that all depends on traffic. If you would prefer to arrive in something more chic than a yellow sedan, let the concierge arrange for you to have your own Pretty Woman moment. He’ll have you picked up in the hotel’s town car, which costs a flat fee of $135.

Staying at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a great experience that you won’t want to miss, but if you have to cancel for one reason or another, make sure to call 24 hours in advance to avoid being charged a cancellation fee.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a standout boutique hotel in Beverly Hills, with service that distinguishes it from the rest. As you enter the lush drive and then the hotel, you'll notice that the friendly staff immediately welcomes you with a smile. At check-in, a member of the staff will pepper you with questions about your preferences: What type of newspaper you would like to receive in the morning? Do you need any restaurant reservations or spa appointments? What time would you like turndown service? You'll even be asked if you need a taxi or driver to take you to the airport at the end of your trip. Before you even get to your room, your whole stay is organized by staff so things run smoothly. The Peninsula Beverly Hills also offers 24-hour check-in. Let's say you'll be arriving to Los Angeles on a 6 a.m. flight — you'll be able to check-in right away, without paying any fees. That's a service you can't find everywhere, and it sets this Five-Star hotel apart.

As you walk around the grounds, you'll encounter staff who are incredibly friendly and go above and beyond to make your stay an enjoyable one. When we stayed here last, we were impressed that everyone remembered our name as we returned numerous times to the Roof Garden and walked through the halls.

That personal attention is constant at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, from the welcome amenities to the turndown service. You might find a pillowcase monogrammed with your initial on the bed or a special treat that the hotel staff knows you like.

While many other hotels charge a resort fee, you'll find that The Peninsula Beverly Hills does not. Newspaper delivery in the mornings and access to the fitness center, pool and other public areas are all just part of being a guest at the Five-Star hotel. Arriving in style does have a price, however. If you would like to get picked up or dropped off at the airport or elsewhere, you can get chauffeured in the house town car for a flat fee of $135.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills is located in the middle of Beverly Hills at 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., near Wilshire Boulevard. This charming Five-Star boutique hotel is in the middle of Century City, Rodeo Drive and shopping on Wilshire Boulevard, which features Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York and plenty of famous restaurants, including CUT and Mr. Chow. Head to the rooftop to get orientated and take in views of downtown Los Angeles, Century City and the Hollywood Hills.

The average price of a room at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is around $800 a night. Far from a cookie-cutter hotel, there are 18 different room types to choose from, so prices range from $585 to $7,000 for the Peninsula Suite, the swankiest accommodations in the hotel. Regardless of how much you spend and what type of room you stay in, it's always a Five-Star experience with the same great amenities and personalized service.