(FORTUNE Small Business) – In a town that caters to big egos, finding good food and lodging is a cinch. So we'll devote a little space to the real challenge: driving L.A.'s freeways. Tip No. 1: Don't leave LAX without a cell phone. For newcomers, getting lost is inevitable, and getting anywhere on time unlikely. If you need help, you'll be nowhere near a gas station (forget a phone booth). So if you don't carry a phone, rent one at a car-rental counter. Tip No. 2: Spend time with a map. Your best bet for getting oriented is Unique Media's topographical city map, which shows the canyons and hills that can really skew driving times. If your bookstore doesn't have it, inquire by fax at 416-924-7322.

--Jolie Solomon

Stay

--Renaissance Beverly Hills: Great location off Pico Boulevard at the foot of Rodeo Drive. Intimate rooms, good Asian cuisine from room service, pool. Rates start at $199. (800-421-3212)

--The Inn at 657: The rooms in this '40s-style bungalow B&B are uninspiring, but the breakfasts aren't. Good for longer stays. Downtown. Rates start at $110. (800-347-7512)

--Le Meridien: A classy way to splurge. Two-foot-deep tubs, delicate Japanese decor, and great electronics (VCR, fax, and more) in each room. Beverly Hills. Rates start at $310. (800-543-4300)

Eat

--Hugo's: Comfy and casual, but you can still sight a star. Try the pumpkin pancakes with fresh-off-the-grove O.J. The menu is a good read. Tantric veggie burger, honey? Breakfast and lunch only. West Hollywood. (323-654-3993)

--Killer Shrimp: "We make only one thing," this restaurant brags, but that's all you'll want. A bowl of shrimp in Cajun broth, with bread for dipping, is $11.95. Marina Del Rey (310-578-2293) or Studio City.

--Musso & Frank: Hollywood's oldest eatery, where Hedda Hopper held court. Bonus: a counter for solo diners. (323-467-7788)

www.fortunesb.com For more information about staying in Los Angeles, log on to www.fortunesb.com/articles/0,2227,482,00.html.