The next morning was the most interesting part of my experience. Although the bed was comfortable, I didn't sleep as soundly as I usually do. An electrical outlet in the bunk allowed me to maintain the charge in my cell phone through the night. I kept my backpack stuffed with electronics and high value items in the upper bunk with me. I packed a pad lock based on research I did when I made my reservation. I did my best to navigate to my locker via my cell phone screen where I stowed my carry-on bag. The room was dark when I entered and all the other tenants were in bed. For the one night I was there, I had four roommates-one other male and three females. My bunk and locker was in a room with five other bunks and lockers.

There was a bar in the lobby and another on the roof top. The front desk staff was polite and helpful and the facility appeared to be clean and welcoming.

Interestingly, my shuttle driver mentioned a few years ago that the neighborhood was a rough one, but rejuvenation efforts have improved the urban environment considerably. I arrived at midnight, thanks to a disastrous travel day courtesy of American Airlines. However, if you don't mind a trip outside your comfort zone, the Freehand may work for you. This was MUCH nicer! But a word of caution for the timid business traveler-if you need a budget hotel, look elsewhere. My only other hostel experience was a youth hostel in Copenhagen in 1971.

Right off the bat, the Freehand Los Angeles is an upscale hostel.

Freehand separation studio 4