If you don't mind homeless people and vagrants, stay at the Grant. It's next to the Grayhound depot so you can get some interesting people watching in. Prior to the renovation, I would never have recommended this hotel but can't give an honest update now! The W's basic rooms are NYC-sized, unnecessarily so in my opinion. Quiet, cleaner neighborhood but nothing nearby. At least the Grant is safe walking distance to the Gaslamp. Last thought: the W is a major party scene weekend nights. At least the people watching is better then!