I spend a year at the CY between early 2001- mid 2002. Because they've such high occupancy rates (perennially high), they're not refurbishing. Rates are around $119. Quite high for the tired looking rooms.

Parking is terrible but free. If you get in late, you either park all the way to the back, of god forbid, if you park in front, beyond the 2 aisle assigned to CY, you'd get a "ticket" from the mall security.

Hotel staff is great though, I miss all the front desk staff, especially the big guy (like Sumo Wrestler). Also like the proximity to everything. There's Sav-On and Vons(both open 24 hours), Barnes and Noble, bagel place, movies, Rubies Diner ... If you need something, ANYTHING, you can get it.

Try the Thai restaurant in front of hotel and the BBQ place next to the Rotisserie place. Skip the Japanese "disco" restaurant. If you want good Japanese, go to East, between Sav-On and Vons.

Also spend weeks at a time at the Marriot Marina del Rey when I got bored of CY. You gotta pay for parking. Hotel is too big, so no one cares to remember your name. Plus the room rate is around $159, unless you get corporate rates. Rooms are nicer than at CY of course, plus you get view of marina if you get room with view. Restaurants are plentiful and within walking distance, but difficult to just get "a bite", all sit-down restaurants. No supermarket within walking distance.

Hope this helps.