The Cecil is possessed of neither air-conditioning nor internet access, despite making mendacious claims in its advertising to both. Avoid like the plague! Because, sitting on my bed, steaming, in a room lacking even a fully-opening window, I opted (rather than endure a night in this sub-tropical hell-hole) to go straight back to the Greyhound Station and spend the night on a more comfortable Greyhound Bus.

I had my doubts at first, but they were soon put to rest.

The Cecil is the next-door neighbor and somewhat frumpier sister of boutique hostel/hotel Stay. It's the least expensive place you can find in downtown LA (or possibly anywhere), but also safe and clean enough to not make you creeped out.

I had the same exact thought as a previous poster, it reminded me alot of Europe.

If you desire a few nicer, prettier amenities, including plasma tv, ipod-dockable clock alarm, free internet in the lobby, and a fresh coat of paint, then you should opt for Stay next door (private rm or hostel style bunks both available). If you don't care and just want the cheapest place possible, choose the Cecil.

Bonus: Cheap and secure parking within a block (I arrived around midnite and left my car in a gated lot down the street. Paid $5 to the attendant upon retrieving my car at 10am the next day.). Just don't park on the street overnight, you'll get a ticket (happened to another hotel guest - doh!)

Review based on one night at Stay - April 2009 $37/nite paid

and one night at the Cecil - July 2009 $29/night paid

This was the cheapest place I could find for two people the week before we needed the room. For the price it was not horrible, but NOT GREAT either. The front lobby is very nice at first glance. Faux marble is everywhere.

read full hotel review on Citysearch

Friendly staff, clean room, very - very affordable and close to everything I need in downtown. I like the feeling of being in Europe but I am still in Los Angeles. It's the "best of both world's"

I already made a reservation for my next trip to Los Angeles.