Hot spots to catch a star

BY CAMERON WILLIAMSON

Bumping into Roger Daltrey at the bar of the seriously rock'n'roll Sunset Marquis in West Hollywood put a unique spin on my evening in LA.

A kia ora broke the ice with the frontman of his generation. The Who's lead singer garnered a reputation for volcanic performances, so there was always the possibility that he might ignore a nosy Kiwi, but Daltrey, preparing to fly to Auckland the following day, was as pleasant and affable as any man in his element - he treats the infamous five-star hotel as his home away from home.

Not earth- shattering, as brushes with celebrity go, but for travellers looking to dip their toe in a celebrity lifestyle, if only for a couple of nights, checking into a hotel frequented by celebrities might just put you in the zone for a close encounter. You may even get to rub shoulders with your favourite star.

To help improve your star-spotting chances, online hotel experts hotels.com have revealed the top 10 hotels around the world that are frequented by the stars.

Delano Hotel, Miami

Known as one of the coolest and trendiest hotels in the US, the Delano Hotel in South Beach Miami is the "place to be and to be seen". The hotel's stunning pool is the perfect place to enjoy the warm Miami sun and poolside butler service, while keeping your eyes peeled for some of the Delano's famous clientele. Many celebrities have rested their heads in the signature all-white penthouse and bungalows including Madonna, Owen Wilson, Beyonce, Will Smith and P Diddy.

Star spotting tip: Even if you can't afford a room, treat yourself to a cocktail at the Rose Bar and you might find yourself sipping on the same drink as someone rich and famous.

Waldorf Astoria, New York City

Known as one of New York's most prestigious hotels and a landmark for guests to the city, The Waldorf Astoria is a favourite not only of celebrities visiting the Big Apple but also of movie makers. The Park Avenue hotel has featured in a number of movies including Coming to America starring Eddie Murphy and Scent of a Woman starring Al Pacino. Filming or not, the door is always open to celebs at The Waldorf Astoria and movie stars such as Richard Gere, Michael J Fox, Cuba Gooding Jr and Ewan McGregor have all stayed.

Star spotting tip: Treat yourself to the famous Sunday brunch and you may be lucky enough to meet a famous face at the buffet.

The Beverly Hills Hotel, LA

Often referred to by locals simply as "The Hotel", the Beverly Hills Hotel is one of the central meeting places for the Who's Who of Los Angeles' television and film industry. Visitors to the hotel have been known to encounter international stars such as Quentin Tarantino, Will Smith, Demi Moore, Tom Hanks and Clint Eastwood.

Star spotting tip: Dine at the hotel's Polo Lounge for prime celebrity spotting.

Hotel Hassler, Roma, Italy

Situated in the heart of Rome atop the Spanish Steps, the Hotel Hassler Roma is home to some of the most exquisite suites in all of Rome. The hotel, one of the best in Italy, has become a haven for the rich and famous when visiting the Eternal City who appreciated the homely and discreet atmosphere. Celebrities including Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Robert Downey Jr and Gwyneth Paltrow have all graced the hallowed halls of this luxurious hotel.

Star spotting tip: Enjoy a meal at the hotel's famous panoramic restaurant for spectacular views of the city and hopefully some VIPs.

The Palms Casino, Las Vegas

The Palms in Las Vegas has become popular with the new, young celebrity set who come to revel at the last remaining Playboy Club in the world as well as the other numerous bars and nightclubs.

Famous people known to visit The Palms include Justin Timberlake, Matt Damon and, of course, Hugh Hefner. There is even a Hugh Hefner suite which promises to have you feeling like a star.

Star spotting tip: Head for the hotel's gym to encounter a celebrity working up a sweat.

Huka Lodge, Taupo, New Zealand

Located beside the crystal clear waters of the Waikato River, Huka Lodge is a haven of exquisite beauty.

The rare physical wonders of this paradise have brought it to the attention of royalty, business leaders and film stars alike. Guests have included Queen Elizabeth II, Bill Gates and Kate Winslet. The property is set on five hectares, but includes only 25 rooms, the most exclusive being two cottages set in the grounds.

Star spotting tip: Famous for trout, try your luck hooking a celeb on board a fishing trip on Lake Taupo.

The Hilton Sydney, Australia

Located in the heart of Sydney's central business district, the Hilton Sydney is a popular spot for celebs visiting Australia.

The rooms, which include Sony PlayStations, have been visited by numerous noteworthy names including famous recording artists such as Jessica Simpson, Wyclef Jean and Snoop Dogg.

Star spotting tip: Order a cocktail at the snazzy Zeta Bar and keep your eyes peeled.

Hotel Pupp, Czech Republic

The four-star Grandhotel Pupp was built in 1701 and has been a popular destination for world leaders and celebrities ever since. For James Bond fans, the hotel also featured as Hotel Splendide in Casino Royale in 2006. The hotel boasts its own golf course, health club and spa treatment centre, and numerous restaurants offering the finest in Czech and international cuisine. Recent visitors to the Grandhotel Pupp have included Michael Douglas, Whoopi Goldberg and (of course) Daniel Craig (aka 007).

Star spotting tip: Book a table to dine at the Grand Restaurant Pupp, the most luxurious restaurant in the hotel.

Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, Mexico

This luxurious Mexican hotel is situated in Los Cabos at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, nestled along the fine white sands that meet the sparkling blue Sea of Cortez. The resort itself is perched high on the corridor's cliff tops that overlook the ocean. It is not surprising then that this marvellous sight has attracted numerous international stars to its doors including Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kevin Costner and Robin Williams.

Star spotting tip: Visit The Spa at Las Ventanas and you may be treated to a celeb sighting as well as a massage.

Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens

William Shatner, Bruce Springsteen, Sophia Loren, Mickey Rourke and Francis Ford Coppola are just a handful of the famous names that have visited this Greek institution located right in the heart of downtown Athens. Described as the most luxurious establishment in Greece, the Hotel Grande Bretagne's deluxe service is the benchmark for hotels in Europe and the pride and joy of Athens.

Star spotting tip: Try a meal at the GB Roof Garden restaurant, though with stunning views of the majestic Acropolis, you may just forget about celeb spotting.

All these hotels and some great hotel deals can be booked at hotels.com.

- © Fairfax NZ News