Freddi at Raffles L'Ermitage in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Cocktail photos provided by publishers Ryland Peters & Small Inc.)

Time to focus on unlocking the mysteries of hotels worldwide and convey to travelers how to get even more out of their hotel experience. Hear from hotel managers, concierges, and travel expert Lois Mitchell, Vice President of Protravel International, on how to up your personal profile and use a hotel's built-in services to the fullest.

• The term "boutique hotel" generally refers to hotels with fewer than 250 rooms, an urban setting, and a unique design.
  
• The Peabody Grand Ballroom is considered one of the finest examples of Italianate Renaiisance Revival in the United States.
  
• Upon request, the Hotel Monaco will provide a unique temporary companion: a goldfish.
  
• The Westminster's spa, designed by Pierre Yves-Rochon, is considered one of the finest in Europe.
  
• Chambers commissioned 14 famous artists, including filmmaker John Waters, to create pieces for each of the hotel's floors.
  
• The Four Seasons Hotels were the first in North America to provide European style concierge services.
  
• The eclectic Asian interior of The W Los Angeles was designed by Hollywood art director Dayna
  Lee.
  
• The Presidential Suite at L'Ermitage features five rooms, four balconies, and a grand piano, all at a cost of $3,800.
  
• Protravel International is a member of Virtuoso, an invitation-only network of 244 luxury travel agencies.