Read this review in its entirety so that you don’t have to learn the hard way about what makes a rewarding visit to Los Angeles.
Firstly, be aware that contrary to most other cities, you do not have to be “close to Downtown” to get the most out of your LA experience. In my naivety, I booked this Airbnb with the impression that you need to be close to Downtown to enjoy all the different activities. LA is more like a collection of different small cities, and is not walkable in the least. This truth shatters the main (and only?) selling point of this Airbnb
Don’t go by the 4-star reviews. This place represents the very worst of Airbnb’s parasitical class. Be prepared to follow a huge list of rules whilst not having your basic needs taken care of. Here was the message I received: “​​all interested guests must be fully verified and make sure to have a clear photo as your Airbnb profile picture (do NOT try send us photo directly or attach a photo in your message). Please message us with your full name, age, detailed reason for visit, employer, university affiliation (if any), and written confirmation that you have read full description and reviews of unit AND the 3 points below (Make sure you type out that you've read them in your reply).” I found these demands bizarre and overbearing. Notice how the profile picture of the host is of his pet dog?
Anyway, the room smelt like urine and I wasn't convinced that the sheets were washed. Overall, I felt completely filthy during my time there. The bathrooms were full of hair, dirt deposits and God-knows-what-else. The toilets are not well-maintained by other guests and tenants.
Predictably, there are high expectations on how Airbnb guests have to handle their trash when checking out, despite the cleaning fee and the entire place being a filthy hellhole.
Spend a little extra money on a good Airbnb (Superhosts only! - I've learned my lesson) outside of the downtown area and rent a car if you need to. Don't be swayed by the "awesome location."