Taking over a former hostel in West Hollywood’s Melrose shopping district, the Palihotel (7950 Melrose Ave.; 1-323/656-4100; pali-hotel.com; doubles from US$250) is the latest boutique inn from savvy L.A. hotelier Avi Brosh. With just 32 rooms, it’s designed to evoke a warm, residential feel, with clubby lounge areas, a courtyard garden, a coffee shop–inspired café, and 32 small (about 23 square meters) but homey rooms painted in shades of tan and blue and outfitted with the same kind of quirky touches found at Brosh’s New Orleans–style Palihouse, just a few blocks away. Book a queen room for their views of the Hollywood Hills. Other amenities include a Thai spa and Vanity, a blow-dry bar for those needing to repair their coifs after a day’s shopping.—Angela Leenhouts

Originally appeared in the February/March 2012 print issue of DestinAsian magazine (“Melrose Place”)