Arrival/Check-In: I arrived at the property mid-afternoon; the driveway was busy but made orderly by the parking and front door staff. A bellhop took my luggage, and I proceeded to the front desk where I was greeted by a check-in clerk who told me I had a lovely Beverly Suite (room 302), a newly renovated room. Even though there were some reservation errors on our end, the cool and professional team at The Peninsula swiftly corrected them — they were there to correct the error and did so in a calm manner.

Guest Quarters: My comfortable room opened into a large living area with a sofa and coffee table. An extensive minibar displayed everything on a silver tray accompanied by a filled bucket of ice. A credenza sat on the opposite side of the room with a large, flat-screen TV on top, and at the far end, a perfectly equipped desk held a printer and fax. I used the printer to update a speech I was giving at our rooftop event the following day. Just behind was an outside patio with a table and chairs; even though it was mid-December, the weather allowed me to enjoy coffee and check my email there.

The hallway included a larage closet and led to the bathroom to the right and a private bedroom on the left. The bathrooms at The Peninsula are adorned with pinkish marble and other natural surfaces that make a warm and inviting environment. The bathroom featured a large tub for premium soaking and an equally large shower stall. Double sinks and amenities such as Oscar de la Renta body lotion and shampoos added to the experience. Of course, The Peninsula includes all the personal care items you may require like cotton swabs and shower caps, and the staff will fetch any other items.

In the bedroom, a king-sized bed included a personalized pillowcase with “FXG” embroidered on it for a special touch. Everything has been renovated in keeping with what The Peninsula patrons expect and desire.

Services/Amenities: This is an area where The Peninsula excels over other properties in its competitive niche. I made sure I entertained at its signature restaurant, The Belvedere (recently completing a massive renovation including an extensive outside patio which you must experience); The Roof Garden; and The Club Bar. Not only was the cuisine superior, but also the staff take the venues to a much higher level. I found the staff at The Belvedere on top of their game as I entertained Global Traveler VIP staff at my departure breakfast. At the more casual Roof Garden, a large group of us enjoyed a luncheon by the pool. Finally, The Club Bar has been a mainstay in Beverly Hills since the hotel opened. The staff remembered me from previous visits, and their sense of humor always makes this traveler feel at home. They always have time to speak with guests. One of my favorites is the cocktail waitress Jolly — she really looks out for me and my team!

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ Our team and The Peninsula crew presented a wonderful rooftop event for our GT Tested Reader Survey awards, and it is a lovely nighttime venue.

◆ Linens to die for make a great night’s sleep, every night.

◆ Employees The Peninsula retains make this a special place, one of the best places to work in the Beverly Hills hotel scene.

THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS

9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
tel 310 551 2888
beverlyhills.peninsula.com