Clara's place is fantastic! It was incredible value for what you get, sparkling clean and so convenient for travelling on public transport if you don't have a car – I got the Metro to most places and it was really easy. Highland Park is also a great area! Lots of really cool coffee shops and restaurants (Kitchen
Mouse does great breakfast) as well as great Mexican food everywhere. I always felt safe walking home alone at night. Clara was the kindest host and her daughter was lovely. My only tip would be to bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper – street cleaning and garbage trucks are quite loud in the early mornings, but I slept perfectly with my earplugs so it's not an issue. Would highly recommend.