Few properties in the world evoke glamour and history like the Beverly Hilton. Located in the iconic Beverly Hills, the Beverly Hilton is close to the high-end shops of Rodeo Drive. Opened in 1955, this hotel has seen countless celebrities walk through their doors, as the property is home to the famous Golden Globe Awards, taking place every winter. The location is an excellent jumping-off point to explore Beverly Hills or as a respite from the hectic chaos of the city.
On arrival, we walk through the bustling lobby, nearly at its peak on a Sunday morning. Although our room isn’t quite ready, our bags are whisked away (to meet us in our room once it’s prepared — I receive a call from reception to advise me once my room is available). My guest and I head downstairs to the iconic Aqua Star pool, where we decide to try the weekend brunch at the all-day dining outlet, Circa 55. Underneath palm trees, our waiter points us towards the inside buffet stations and outdoor grilling stand. For Middle Eastern guests used to a Friday brunch, the focus at Circa 55 is much more based around breakfast foods (we approve). There is also a cold station for seafood, child-friendly offers for younger guests, and an array of desserts. Our waiter is seamless in his topping up of beverage (yes, for a Sunday brunch, we felt bubbles were appropriate). The scene is eclectic, and much like the lobby, the people watching is unique. Our suggestions are limited — perhaps we’re used to the liveliness of a UAE Friday brunch, but we would love to hear a DJ, or a more exciting soundtrack. The brunch, whether or not you are a guest of the hotel, is an easy way to spend a leisurely weekend afternoon.
With a variety of room categories, guests can take their pick on which style and space work for them. We’re placed in a newly refurbished Premier King. Hallways are long, and decorated in a soft blue palate, with subtle stars and other designs. Our room looks back towards the hills, rather than towards the more recognizable buildings and stores of Beverly Hills. While on the smaller size, the room is immaculately appointed. We love the clean and minimalist approach, but think the point is taken a bit far with a coffee machine being something on request, and not standard. We love the incredibly soft linens and L’Occitane toiletries. We appreciate the USB and power ports near the bed and the iPad, where we can control just about everything. This technology is especially helpful when we’re able to press a button and ring through to valet to have our car waiting. Speaking of valet, we love the attention to detail in the form of cold bottles of water placed in our car when it pulls up.
Should keeping in shape be on the agenda for your stay at the Beverly Hilton, look no further than the well-equipped gym featuring Precor equipment. The hotel is also home to Upgrade Labs, which lists itself as the ‘first-ever biohacking human upgrade facility.’ No, we didn’t get to try any of the treatments, but there are over 15 customized high-tech experiences for the brain and body, should you be interested.
While we love the Beverly Hilton and all the history the hotel represents, on a return trip, we might just have to check out the newly opened neighbour, the luxurious Waldorf Astoria.
Rooms available from AED 1,019.
Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills, California, +1 310 274 7777 or visit www.beverlyhilton.com
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