The Mayfair Hotel Los Angeles

My room was really small, though I know they have larger ones, and the bathroom would be a squeeze for a tall person. The carpet was stained and should be replaced, and housekeeping hadn’t done a great job before I arrived. The toilet paper was already half used, then ran out with no spare. There wasn’t any bottled water in the room either. The lobby is lovely, and the hotel is about a 20-minute walk from Figueroa St and the metro station. The street itself felt pretty sketchy. At check-in, they tried to get me to opt out of daily cleaning to “save the planet.” That’s a good idea, but giving guests plastic cups instead of glass feels contradictory. I’ve included photos for reference.

Getting around downtown was easy from this location, which was the main plus for me. Valet was the only parking option, at $36 a day, and I was charged twice. The staff did sort out a credit a couple of weeks after my stay. The hotel’s dark look wasn’t for me. The elevator had no lights at all, so riding in total darkness with two strangers was quite an experience. There was a picture of demons in my room that I tried to take off the wall, but couldn’t. The decor also reminded me of a whips-and-chains dungeon. I was glad to leave.

The room and lobby were clean and well kept, the beds were comfortable, and the staff were courteous and helpful. But the rooms are small, and finding outlets to charge things took some searching. At the desk, there are two sockets, so you have to choose between the TV and the lamp, or unplug the coffee maker if you want both. The neighborhood didn’t feel comfortable to me, even though they say it’s safe. The location really let the place down. For the same price, I think you can find a hotel in a better area.

The construction next door woke me up, and the view from my room wasn’t good. I assume the noise is temporary, though, and it wouldn’t stop me coming back. The hotel is supposed to be haunted, but I didn’t see a ghost and slept fine until the work started. I loved staying in this historic building. There’s great artwork, friendly staff, and a good happy hour. The lobby has lots of inviting spots for a quick bite or a drink with friends or a date.