In the vast majority of cases, a hotel closed for a $400 million multi-year renovation project isn’t likely to drop everything to entertain your request for a reservation two years hence. Unless, of course, you’re Steven Spielberg.

Vancouver’s historic landmark Hotel Georgia (which, in its day, housed everyone from heads of state to Sinatra to Elvis) was understandably bowled over to receive a call from Mr. Spielberg, requesting accommodations at the hotel for the 2010 Olympics. The hotel happily obliged and has since been referring to Spielberg as its Guest No. 1 (a far better title than Client No. 9). The hotel is scheduled to open in 2009.

Renovations to the hotel will morph the original hotel’s 313 guest rooms into 168 suites and private residences. Chef David Hawksworth will open a dining room at the property, which will also include a weight-training and fitness facility and an outdoor pool flanked by fireplaces.

Spielberg Booking a Good First Step in Heritage Hotel’s Return to Glamour