The Beverly Hilton hotel (www.beverlyhilton.com), in Beverly Hills, Calif., has nearly completed an $80 million renovation. Hilton likes to refer to it as a “transformation,” and indeed, this former Merv Griffin hotel, under new ownership since 2003, has been reborn. That is evident from the moment one steps into the spacious lobby. All 570 guest rooms (including 101 suites) have sophisticated furnishings, European linens, high-speed Internet and power plugs, a work desk and ergonomic chair, 42-inch HDTVs (and a smaller TV in the bathroom, just in case you're in the mood for a soak while keeping up with CNN), and an in-room safe with a power source to charge laptops.

The renovated ballroom and event space feature Italian Murano glass chandeliers and state-of-the-art AV production technology — this is, after all, home to the Golden Globe awards and many other Hollywood events. The more than 80,000 square feet of meeting and event space includes the self-contained executive meeting center.