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Now under new management and after an $11-million renovation, this 1929 Spanish Revival hotel has a new name and a gorgeous modern style -- and usually costs about half the price of other hotels in the area. Local hip hoteliers Joie de Vivre revamped its 171 large, bright guest rooms, and though there's no fixing the dark and gloomy hallways, once inside your abode you'll find plenty to cheer about, like the chocolate brown and mocha color palette, dark wood, firm mattresses, double-paned windows that open, quiet surroundings, all-around cleanliness, voice mail, lots and lots of elbowroom, and corporate floors (12 and 16) with irons, robes, and free continental breakfast. Bathrooms are old but clean, and most have tubs. Feel like splurging? Go for one of the five penthouse-level suites, which have lovely terraces with a New York vibe. Or simply step into the restaurant bar at night which has funky glowing ball lamps, a youngish crowd, "small plates," and a full bar. Tip: Rooms above the ninth floor have good, but not great, southern views of the city.

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