Holiday Inn Express West Los Angeles

The Holiday Inn Express West Los Angeles is friendly, and has a relaxed vibe throughout. Given its proximity to the VA hospital and UCLA Medical Center, the hotel employs staff that are especially warm and intent on making guests feel at home. There aren’t many common areas, but the ones available are modern and cozy. The lobby is well-lit and decorated in tan tile and contemporary furniture, including a dark wood table, sleek cream-colored couch, and subtly patterned red armchairs. There are free newspapers, coffee, tea, cookies, pastries, and apples available all day. The breakfast room has a unique, open-air design, with orange curtains serving as walls, and cheerful metal tables and chairs with bright orange cushions. Potted plants add some greenery, while flowers in vases top tables. Guests are a mix of tourists and hospital visitors; some have noted that the entrance to the hotel is hidden in the parking garage, and may be difficult to find.

The Holiday Inn Express West Los Angeles is directly off the I-405 on a somewhat gritty street, where it’s better to drive at night than walk. Guests are just a few minutes' drive or 15-minute walk from the VA Hospital, and there are restaurants, shops, and a movie theater within a few blocks. UCLA Medical Center is 10 minutes away by car. Cultural attractions, including Santa Monica Museum of Art and the Getty Museum, are within five to 10 minutes' drive. Santa Monica Beach and Pier are also just 10 minutes' drive. Los Angeles International Airport is 15 to 20 minutes from the hotel.

Rooms are decorated in a basic chain style, with carpeting and warm wood, and large windows that allow in natural light. The color scheme is mainly beige, brown, and gold, with touches of dusty blue and green. Comfy beds are triple-sheeted and guests can choose from a variety of pillows. Each room has a flat-screen TV with HBO, mini-fridge, coffeemaker, air-conditioning, and free newspapers. Bathrooms have black granite countertops and shower/tub combos; the red tiling and textured wallpaper are somewhat dated. Some guests mention hearing loud traffic noise from the highway. 

A highlight here is the free breakfast, which includes a good variety of hot and cold items, from pancakes to yogurt with fruit. The 24-hour business center in the lobby has print, fax, and copy services, and there are coin-operated laundry facilities, as well. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. On-site parking in the garage is offered for a daily fee -- though the rate is lower than what guests would likely pay off-site. A small fitness center with cardio machines and weights is available.