As the Academy Award hoopla kicks into high gear, I was reminded of an interesting fact I learned on a recent visit to the Loews Hollywood Hotel.
As most anyone who lives in Los Angeles can tell you, the Loews Hollywood is directly adjacent to the Hollywood and Highland complex that is the home to the Dolby Theatre, where the Academy Awards are presented each year. What I didn't know is that, after the award winners leave the stage at the Dolby, they are walked through a special door directly into the Loews Hollywood, which is where the stars do their post-win press conferences.
In fact, there is often a Loews representative at that door who gets to welcome the winners and even sometimes holds their Oscars while they make themselves presentable for the media.
"How amazing is that job?" Ty Bentsen, who does PR for the hotel, said on my visit. "These actors were just crying or freaking out on stage in front of the world, and then they are right there in front of you saying, 'Here, hold this Oscar for me while I fix my make-up.' Wow."
The Loews Hollywood is definitely loaded with true Hollywood glamour, and a recent $31 million renovation has made it even more marvelous (for all guests, not just Oscar winners).
When the renovation is completed next month, it will have included a redo for all 600-plus guestrooms, a brand-new lobby, including the addition of a lobby lounge, and an all-new Preston's Restaurant. There will also be an expanded fitness center, the opening of Exhale Mind Body Spa and more.
During my visit, I found the changes to be very successful. The property now has the upscale ambiance that a hotel in such a noteworthy location deserves. I especially liked the views of the Hollywood Hills and the Hollywood Sign from the rooms on the upper floors.
Unfortunately, I wouldn't suggest that you try to book clients into the hotel on the night of the Academy Awards, however.
"Yeah, we're a bit busy that night," said managing director Brian Johnson.
And don't bother volunteering for the job of door monitor. I already tried that.
