This is an overdue review. Sorry, Elen! We stayed at Cool Pad from 12-18 August 2013 during our trip to L.A.
Like everyone has commented, Elen and Michael are excellent and hospitable hosts. We had a great time there and our family with 2 girls (aged 9 and 7) enjoyed our stay completely.
The house has everything you need. The kitchen is fully stocked with pots, pans, baking dishes ... rather, everything you have in your own kitchen. Elen is very kind and generous to supply us with basic food items for us to start with. If there's anything you lack, a supermarket is just about 10 min walk away.
Cool Pad is located in a quite and serene neighbourhood yet close to most tourist attractions. It is very near to the Hollywood sign, in fact you can see it everyday going out and coming home.
The only downside, if there is, is the mobile reception. But who needs to be disturbed on a holiday?! Elen has phone and wireless internet connection installed, and there is no problem to get connected, if you wish to.
We really felt at home, comfortable and rested at Cool Pad. Highly recommended and we will definitely come back when we go to L.A. again.
Thanks again Elen and Michael!