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Category: Things To Do/Attractions
 1. The first strongly recommended is the Gold Gate Bridge, one of the biggest single-holes hanging bridges in the world. You can have a hike on the bridge or ride a bike. Remember to bring your own water.
2. Second comes to the Alcatraz Island, famous for it's the location of federation jail in the past.
3. Spend the afternoon at Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 having fun to watch the sea gulls and sealions or buying souvenirs at the shops. It's crowded but worth visiting.
4. San Francisco Chinatown - a place fun for kids and the best place for cheap souvenirs. Must eat dim sum, cheap & yum!
5. Lombard Street - the crookedest street on steep hills. Beautiful flowers and landscapes. With kids, better go by cable car.
6. Union Square - great shopping and restaurants. No bother visiting if you are looking for something special in SF.
7. Golden Gate Park - worthy of spending 1 whole day especially for families with kids. It's the home of hundreds of gardens and attractions. Buy park maps for $3. Highly recommended are McLaren Memorial Rhododendron Dell, The Rose Garden, Strybing Arboretum, tulips and daffodils around the Dutch windmill. Don't forget to rent a boat at Strawberry Hill/Stow Lake. Boat rent tel: 415/752-0347
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Category: Things To Do/Attractions
 Located in downtown San Francisco, the Chinatown of San Francisco is the biggest Chinatown in US. The center of the Chinatown is in the across point of Grant Avenue and California Street. All the styles of sightsee you see are traditional Chinese-style, just like a small 'china'. Two main roads in Chinatown is Stockton Street and Grant Avenue. Stockton mainly for local's shopping and Grant for tourist with shops and restaurants. Visitors can have a experience of colorful Chinese culture including clothes, foods, architecture. You can buy cheap but nice souvenirs in Grant Avenue.
Free events in Chinatown include Chinese New Year Parade(In January or Feburary), Annual Autumn Moon Festival(September), the Chinatown Night Market Fair(October to December).
Some of the best restaurants in Chinatown include Y Ben House, Great Eastern, Hunan's Home, Chef Jia's and Oriental Pearl. They provide traditional Chinese food like Dim Sum and Chinese herb Soup. There is a nice Pizza House at Kearny Street called Tomasso's Pizza. Try it when you are there.
It's difficult to find parking lots so take taxi's and buses. You can also ride cable car by California Line or Powell Line.
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Category: Transportation
1. MUNI (Municipal Railway or Francisco's bus and streetcar system).
Cheap and convenient, but irregular and crowded sometimes.
2. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
It's a good idea to take BART to Berkeley or to get to the SFO and Oakland airports.
3. CalTrain commuter train systems (For suburban cities around the Bay)
4. Ferry at Fisherman's Wharf (across the Bay to Marin)
5. Taxis (Affordable and Quick, charge based on miles)
6. Cable Cars (Three routes: Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason, California). Children will have great fun with Powell-Hyde.
7. Rent A Car (need be very familiar to the route. Parking is very difficult and expensive. Un-necessary if you just stay inside the town.)
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Category: Resaurants/Food
San Francisco has many delicious choices in thousands of restaurants. Some of the must-try food:
1. Aslam's Rasoi (Indian Food)
1037 Valencia St
San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: (415) 695-0599
Open Hours: 5pm to 11pm
Must Try: TANDOORI, Mango Lassi, Curry
Average Price Range: About $20/person (A little Pricy)
2. Gary Danko (Contemporary Food)
800 North Point at Hyde Street,
San Francisco, CA 94109-1228
Phone: (415) 749-2060
Must Try: Cheese
Price Range: About $90 for 5 courses.
3. Hog Island Oyster Company (American, Seafood)
1 Ferry Plz
San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: (415) 391-7117
Open Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-8pm Sat-Sun 11am-6pm
Must Try: Grilled Cheese, Raw Oysters
Price Range: $21-30/person
4. Town Hall (American)
342 Howard St
San Francisco, CA
94105
Phone: (415) 908-3900
Open Hours:
Sun 5:30pm-10pm
Mon-Thu 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm
Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-11pm
Sat 5:30pm-11pm
Must Try: Dessert, Appetizer, Steak
Average Price Range: About $31-40/person
5. Tommaso's Restaurant (Italian, Pizza)
1042 Kearny St
San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: (415) 398-9696
Open Hours:
Tue-Sat 5pm-10:30pm
Sun 4pm-9:30pm
Must Try: Peperoni Pizza, Mushroom Pizza
Price Range: $30/person
6. Tadich Grill (American, Steak)
240 California St
San Francisco, CA
94111-4370
Phone: (415) 391-1849
Open Hours:
Mon-Fri 11am-9:30pm
Sat 11:30am-9:30pm
Must Try: Sand Dabs, Fish Soup
Price: $40/person
7. Yank Sing (Chinese, Dim Sum)
49 Stevenson St
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: (415) 541-4949
Open Hours:
Mon-Fri 11am-3pm
Sun 11:30am-2pm
Must Try: Dim Sum
Price: $25/person
8. Frascati
1901 Hyde St
San Francisco, CA
94109
Phone: (415) 928-1406
Open Hours:
Mon-Sat 5:30pm-10pm
Sun 5pm-9pm
Must Try: figs, Prosciutto, Bread Pudding
Price: $31-40
More coming...
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Category: Things To Do/Attractions
The annual flower show in San Francisco is held in March every year. This show has been regarded as one of the best flower shows in the area. In this four acres garden show, there are free seminars for all gardening levels. Featured highlights include Orchids, Bonsai, Children's Gardens.
In 2008, it will take place from Mar 12 to Mar 16 in Cow Palace, San Francisco, CA. Address:
2600 Geneva Ave
Daly City, CA 94014
Tickets can be bought online at http://www.gardenshow.com/sf/tickets/index.asp
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Category: Weather
Average Temperature by Month (F Degree):
Jan 48.7
Feb 52.2
Mar 53.3
Apr 55.6
May 58.1
Jun 61.5
Jul 62.7
Aug 63.7
Sep 64.5
Oct 61.0
Nov 54.8
Dec 49.4
About what to wear, in Summer, it's hot in the SF city area. Sometimes it's rainny or foggy. But in the Fisherman's Wharf or the places near the beach, it could be 'very cold'. Even in Summer, don't forget your 'windbreakers' or 'jackets'. You may experience the 'coldest Winter' in August.
The best time of year to visit San Francisco are Spring and Autumn for warm weather and the most cloud-free sky.
In Winter, it doesn't snow. But the temperature fluctuates. Bring your winter clothes. A scarf is a must.
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Category: Accommodation
1. The Archbishop's Mansion (B&B/mid-range/Alamo Square)
1000 Fulton St, Alamo Square Park
Phone: 415-563-7872
Average price: $100-$250
A bed and breakfast stuffed with antique details; Yummy breakfast; Romantic atmosphere; 'Painted Ladies' just down the street; Best for honeymoon;
Small elevator; Those with limited mobility better stay at first floor.
2. Argonaut Hotel (boutique hotel/luxury/Fisherman's Wharf)
495 Jefferson Street at Hyde
Phone: 415-563-0800
Average price: $159-$1169
A historic landmark; Waterfront location; Bay view room with better view.
Small rooms; Tiny widows.
3. Campton Place Hotel (boutique hotel/ luxury/Union Square)
340 Stockton St
Phone: 415-781-5555
Average price: $385-$475
Stylish small hotel; Sterling Art Deco decor; Just off Union Square; Request a quieter corner room above the second floor; Corner rooms with better view of Union Square.
4. Fairmont San Francisco (historic hotel/luxury/Nob Hill)
950 Mason
Phone: 415-772-5000
Average price: $229-$830
Hosting every US president since Harry Truman; Incredible views of the San Francisco Bay. Penthouse on top worthy $10,000 a night; Simulated rainstorms every half hour in Bar Tonga Room.
5. InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco (historic hotel/luxury/Nob Hill)
1 Nob Hill
Phone: 415-392-3434
Average price: $325
Old world charm and luxuries; A landmark San Francisco hotel; Panoramic views at the Bar on the 19th floor;
6. Orchard Hotel (boutique hotel/mid-range-Union Square)
665 Bush St
Phone: 415-362-8879
Average price: $259 to $559
Smallish luxury hotel; Close to Union Square; Spacious rooms; Platform bed with pampered box spring; Reasonable price;
7. Mandarin Oriental (business hotel/luxury/Financial District)
222 Sansome St
Phone: 415-276-9888
Average price: $500-$3,000
Exquisite luxury and oriental flavor; The 3rd tallest building in San Francisco; Comfortable rooms;
Tips: Try to get a bay view room to see the entire bay; Walk through the sky bridge to enjoy the incredible view of the city;
8. Renaissance Parc 55 (business hotel/luxury/Union Square)
55 Cyril Magnin Street
Phone: 800) 595-0507, 415-392-8000
Average price: $199-$239
A 32-story 4 star hotel; Cable cars and BART station nearby;
Expensive Parking; Book a parking package in advance;
Warning: Tenderloin, which is a dense residential, retail and nightlife neighborhood in downtown San Francisco with significant poverty and crime(from Wikipedia), is also in the immediate vicinity.
9. Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco (historic hotel/luxury/Nob Hill)
600 Stockton St
Phone: 415-296-7465
Average price: $568
'Best Hotel in California' by Travel +Leisure readers; Absolutely superb service and staff. Located on top of Nob Hill;
Exorbitant parking fee;
10. Hotel Vitale (boutique hotel/luxury/SOMA)
8 Mission Street
Phone: 415-278-3700
Average price: $ 346
Contemporary luxuries; A place to party; Signature penthouse spas; Rooftop conference space; Superb bay views;
Noise from the downstairs Bar and from the street traffic; Expensive parking;
11. Hotel Drisco (luxury/Pacific Heights)
2901 Pacific Avenue
Phone: 415-346-2880
Average price: $340
Located in the famous neighborhoods Pacific Heights; Quiet and safe; Friendly and helpful staff; Comfortable and clean rooms; Excellent Breakfast;
Not in downtown; Need a taxi ride to and from downtown, Chinatown or Fishermans' Wharf.
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Category: Accommodation
There are three Marriott hotels in San Francisco:
1, San Francisco Marriott (Just south of Market Street)
55 Fourth street San Francisco, California
Phone 1-415-896-1600
Average rate: $340
Across the street from the Moscone Center; Near Cable Cars; Near Union Square; Walk to the Financial District, AT&T Park; Home of Major League Baseball's San Francisco Giants.
2, San Francisco Marriott fisherman's wharf
1250 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco. CA.
phone 415-775-7555
Average room rate: $260
Near Golden Gate Bridge, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39, North Beach District, Cable Cars and more.
Parking is very expensive here.
3, JW Marriott San Francisco
500 Post Street, (formerly Pan Pacific Hotel)
Phone: 415-771-8600
Average room rate: $380
Near Union Square; Good Location; Comfy beds; Great Service;
Rooms at Post Street side may be a little bit noisy.
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Category: Accommodation
1. Mandarin Oriental
222 Sansome St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-276-9888
Average price: $475-$3,000
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
$25 daily fee, smaller pets under 25 lbs allowed.
2. Marriott - Fisherman's Wharf
1250 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-775-7555
Average price: $129-$750
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
Dogs of all sizes are allowed. A $100 additional fee per room one time.
Other pet policies:
Dogs can be left alone in the room on the condition that it?s for short periods, a contact number is left with the front desk and dogs behave themselves well and quietly.
3. The Westin San Francisco
181 Third St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-777-5300
Average price: $299-$550
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
$25 one time and a $100 cleaning fee, dogs of all sizes allowed.
Other pet policies:
Pet services include plush beds, dog-sitting/walking/grooming services, specialty stores, and birthday cake.
Pet check-in package with pet toy, bone, a W Hotels ID, and special treat on custom dog bed. Dogs are not allowed to be left unattended in the room.
4. Prescott Hotel-a Kimpton Hotel
545 Post St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-563-6831
Average price: $160-$750
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
No pet fees, a pet liability form should be signed.
5. Pan Pacific Hotel - San Francisco
500 Post St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-732-7747
Average price: $299-$2,750
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
$75 one time, 25 lb max.
Other pet policies:
Pet sitting services available.
No "Bones About It" program provides disposable "pooper" bags, doggy dim sum and sheepskin toy balls.
6. The Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-512-1111
Average price: $ 320-$580
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
$100 non-refundable fee one time, Dogs up to 80 pounds allowed.
Other pet policies:
Dogs are restricted to 1st and 2nd floor rooms only, and are not allowed to be left unattended in room any time of the day.
7. Galleria Park Hotel
191 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-781-3060
Average price: $190-$435
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
Pets accepted.
Other pet policies:
"Something to Bark About" package offers a doggy bag complete with water bowl, bottled water, doggy food, a plush toy, and other special dog treats.
Guests are encouraged to bring their pets to the rooftop garden area for a view of the Bay Area.
8. Marina Motel
2576 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-921-9406
Average price: $75-$199
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
For an additional $10 nightly fee, all dogs are welcome. No pet fee for stays over one week.
Other pet policies:
Dogs are not allowed to be left alone in room at any time. Pet treat available.
9. Hotel Monaco
501 Geary St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-292-0100
Average price: $175-$459
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
Entirely pet friendly
Other pet policies:
Pet-friendly services include gourmet dog cookies, clean-up bags, temporary dog ID tags and plus walking and sitting services.
Bone-A-Petit package available. For guests not traveling with furry family members, a companion goldfish is available for free.
10. Serrano Hotel
405 Taylor Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-885-2500
Average price: $209-$469
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
Well-behaved dogs of all sizes are allowed. No pet fees, just sign a pet liability form.
Other pet policies:
Pet Palace Package starts at $189, including dog walking, gourmet dog biscuits, designer mineral water, and other emergency doggy food as well.
11. Hotel Palomar
12 Fourth Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-348-1111
Average price:
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
No fee, only a pet liability form to sign.
Other pet policies:
"Woof for Wellness" package includes special pets? beds, toys, plate ware, plus spa treatment and treats during stay.
"Lap of Luxury" package covers pet stylist visiting, canine massage, doggie Altoids and leopard-print bed.
12. Hotel Triton
342 Grant Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-394-0500
Average price: $129-$299
Pet Fees & Restrictions:
$50 one time, well-behaved dogs of all sizes welcome.
Other pet policies:
Pets are not allowed on the Eco-Floor or in Suites.
Special pet packages, along with pet-friendly accommodations, designer bowls for drinking, and treats on special occasions are available.
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Category: Accommodation
Passengers transfer at the airport for additional California destinations or international spots can take advantage of the hotels near the airport. There are two International airports in SF. Please see the map at SFO Map and OAK Map.
Hotels near the San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
1, Best Western Grosvenor Airport Hotel
380 South Airport Boulevard, South San Francisco, CA
Phone: 650-873-3200
Average price: $99-$250
Distance to airport: 1 mile
24-hour airport shuttle, comfortable and clean rooms, free internet access, free breakfast buffet till 11:00 am and free U.S.A. Today and the S.F. Examiner-all available within your comfortable price range!
Windows are not soundproof, those consider the occasional traffic noise from Hwy 101. Avoid staying in a room on the back side of the hotel.
2, San Francisco Airport Westin
1 Old Bayshore Hwy., Millbrae, CA
Phone: 650.692.3500
Average price: $119-$379
Distance to airport: 1 mile
Signature Heavenly Beds in Westin's rooms, nice bayfront situation, huge heated indoor pool, complimentary 24 hour airport shuttle service, and 24 hour business center.
Forget about complete silence in airport hotels, after all, Westin is so close to the airport and so popular among convention planners.
3, Marriott - San Francisco Airport
1800 Old Bayshore Hwy., Burlingame, CA
Phone: 650-692-9100
Average price: $139-$249
Distance to airport: 1.1 miles
Contemporary design, classic Marriott luxuries, comfortable bedding, considerate staff, complete selection of recreational amenities, convenient to airport yet fairly quiet, this solid 3 star Marriott hotel could be the nicest San Francisco airport hotel.
Views are great too if your room is on the water side of the hotel, jetliners takeoffs and landings can also be a cool sight. To combine both fun, stroll along the beautiful bay trail by the shore of San Francisco Bay.
4, Holiday Inn Express San Francisco Airport South
1250 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA
Phone: 650-347-2381
Average price: $75-$124
Distance to airport: 1.5 Miles
Well-maintained budget corporate property with ideal location right off Hwy 101, 5 minutes from the airport and the BART Station.
The budget-minded would appreciate the complimentary shuttle service, free parking and internet access, complementary breakfast buffet, Kids Eat and Stay Free policy, etc.
A San Francisco Airport Park and Fly Package would offer the most comprehensive and easiest conveniences while flying in or out of the Bay Area.
5, Hyatt - San Francisco Airport
1333 Bayshore Highway, Burlingame, CA
Phone: 650-347-5948
Average price: $109-$225
Distance to airport: 1.7 miles
A prestigious AAA 4-Diamond Hyatt, with open atrium, spacious rooms, chic Knuckles Historical Sports Bar,24 hour business center, complimentary shuttles, and a relaxing quiet environ which is great for a airport hotel.
Considering the ridiculous downtown parking charge that can easily cost you up to 60 or more bucks, you couldn't complain too much about the 17$ parking here. But the lack of more elevator banks does make walking to rooms slightly far.
6, Radisson Hotel San Francisco Airport at Sierra Point
5000 Sierra Point Pkwy, Brisbane, CA
Phone: 415-467-4400
Average price: $79-$219
Distance to airport: 2 miles
Multistory luxury establishment blending resplendent Art Deco style with outstanding four-star Radisson service, directly off Highway 101 in an exquisite bayfront setting.
Do try the patented Sleep Number Bed. The eponymous Xebec restaurant serves a host of tantalizing treats, complemented by the breathtaking bay views.
Hotels near Oakland International Airport (OAK)
1, Holiday Inn Express Hotel
66 Airport Access Road, Oakland, CA
Phone: 510-569-4400
Average price: $119 to $259
Distance to airport: 0.5 mile
Budget-oriented airport hotel; Less than one half mile from the flight; An AAA 3 Diamond establishment with 4 star comfort and 5 star convenience.
To be so close to the runways without hearing any airplanes flying overhead, staying away from the airport side of the hotel will make do.
2, Hilton Oakland Airport
One Hegenberger Road, Oakland, CA
Phone: 510- 635-5000
Average price: $114 to $500
Distance to airport: 1 mile
Upscale chain hotel delivering a solid wealth of resort living just outside the main airport complex.
While its proximity to the airport may suggest a considerate sum of noise from all of the activity, rooms are surprisingly quiet that you wont wake up to any airplane's landing or taking off overhead.
3, Park Plaza Hotel
150 Hegenberger Rd
Phone: 510-635-5300
1 mile from airport & Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
Great Restaurant; Free shuttle to airport; Free parking;
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Category: Accommodation
The largest concentration of San Francisco hotels is also to be found in downtown, an area surrounded by Financial District, Civic Center, and Nob Hill and studded with dozens of art galleries, ethnic restaurants and chic shops.
Some of the grandest San Francisco hotels are located in the Financial District but many moderately priced San Francisco hotels are scattered around downtown as well.
Popular downtown San Francisco hotels are listed using the following categories:
1. Luxury downtown San Francisco hotels
Clift San Francisco Hotel
495 Geary St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-775-4700
Average price: $325-$1,800
A historic Theatre District property practically next door to the Curran Theatre. Over-the-top Georgian decor, warm color palette-all about smoldering glitz and glamour for the glitterati.
Do check out the Louis XVI chairs which are staged throughout the lobby. The Asia de Cuba package is an absolutely worthy deal.
The Westin St. Francis
335 Powell Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-397-7000
Average price: $149-$500
An excellent top-end value overlooking the Union Square, with historic elegance, fair prices, and a convenient cable car turnabout at the front door.
Make sure to try out one of the glass elevators for a fantastic 32-floor city view- the greatest free thrill ride in the City by the Bay.
Hotel Monaco
501 Geary St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-292-0100
Average price: $219-$349
Stately columned lobby, brightly theatrical color scheme, velvet furnishings, rich textiles -the playful romantic touches explode at this Beaux-arts boutique downtowner
Feel free to check in with your furry companions, just request a room on the Geary Street side.
2. Mid-range downtown San Francisco hotels
Hotel Adagio
550 Geary St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-775-5000
Average price: $129-$219
Hands down near Union Square, with a snappy Spanish colonial revival design, a splash of warm colors and a special room size, definitely way above the average Union Square hotels of mid-range caliber.
Try capitalizing on the Mediterranean-style fare at the happening downstairs Cortez bar and restaurant.
Address your concern about street noise while booking, and require a room with its number ending in 00, 09, 10, 11, or 12, which are quieter.
Harbor Court Hotel
165 Steuart Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-882-1300
Average price: $159-$325
Discreet chic at the edge of the waterfront downtown, less opulent than the adjacent Vitale, but the Steuart Street location puts some of the city?s best bayside views, hippest restaurants, Financial District and Union Square at the doorstep.
For a small fee you can get access to the state-of-the-art YMCA facilities next door.
Ask for a room with a bay view; the nightly display of lights of the Bay Bridge is a real treat.
Hotel Rex
562 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-433-4434
Average price: $175-$675
Modeled in a literary theme, and located near Union Square, the smart art salon-style hotel is cute and clubby from inside out.
In keeping with its theme, there is an extensive library down the lobby, an adjoining antiquarian bookshop, and a monthly poetry reading.
If you?re into gallery-hopping, check out the Lucid Gallery next door.
3. Budget downtown San Francisco hotels
Hotel des Arts
447 Bush St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-956-3232
Average price: $43-$69
Part smart gallery, part stylish hotel. Wall-to-wall murals in every room. You can't beat the budget friendly rates
The unique concept can be cool for art freaks but distractive considering neatness and cleanness of a hotel.
Hotel Union Square San Francisco
114 Powell Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-397-3000
Average price: $89-$159
Only one block from Union Square, well kitted-out rooms, very clean bathrooms and superbly helpful staff, you couldn't ask for a better suited hotel for the money.
There is a cable car stop some 100 meters down the street, if the clanging of cable cars bothers, avoid rooms on the Powell Street side.
A room with a ceiling fan overlooking the car park will suffice, especially during summer months.
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Category: Accommodation
Here are some of the best bets for good budget overnight in San Francisco.
It's ordered by district, for a map of the districts in SF, check the SF district map.
Union Square
1, Halcyon Hotel
649 Jones St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-929-8033
Average price: $89
A safe clean home with efficiency studios off Union Square, designed for extended stays.
No elevator in this 4-floor building. No air con.
2, Grant Hotel
753 Bush St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-421-7540
Average price: $91
Central downtown location; Reasonable rates; Secured parking.
A small trek uphill needed to get there. No air-conditioning.
Fisherman's Wharf
1, Best Inn Fisherman's Wharf
2850 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-776-3220
Average price: $145
Walking distance to Ghirardelli Square, Lombard Street, the Cannery and Fisherman's Wharf. Free parking.
Marina District
1, Hotel Del Sol
3100 Webster St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-921-5520
Average price: $179
Functional rooms with funky 50s motor lodge decor; walking distance of great dining and shopping; Free Parking.
No in-room thermostats. The tiny bathroom and thin walls.
SOMA
1, The Mosser
54 4th St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-986-4400
Average price: $123
5 minutes from Powell Street tram stop; Few blocks from the Union Square; San Francisco Shopping Center and the Metreon down the 4th Street.
Old-fashioned; Small rooms; Decoration somewhat dated.
Chinatown
1, Grant Plaza Hotel
465 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-434-3883
Average price: $87
Right next door to Chinatown's dragon gate; Pleasantly festive neighborhood.
No amenities; Rooms facing the main street may get noisy in the early morning. Better request a corner room (larger).
Alamo Square
1, Metro Hotel
319 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-861-5364
Average price: $72
Pleasant residential neighborhood; Basic rooms, but clean; Near the hippy complement Haight Ashbury. No air-conditioning.
Civic Center
1, Edwardian Hotel
1668 Market St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-864-1271
Average price: $111
Nice European-style hotel close to Symphony Davies Hall, Opera House, San Francisco City Hall and the Civic Center Auditorium.
Traffic noise from Market Street on weekday mornings.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
1, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Francisco Airport North
373 South Airport Boulevard, South San Francisco, CA
Phone: 650-589-060
Average price: $ 135
Right off 101 and very close to the rental car return; Decent rate; Frequent airport shuttles.
Noise from the freeway and of planes taking off and landing can be annoying.
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
1, Days Inn Oakland Airport
8350 Edes Avenue, Oakland, CA
Phone: 510-568-1880
Average price: $88
Basic motel lodging; clean and friendly; Complimentary airport shuttle; Complimentary breakfast; Free parking; Budget room rates;
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Category: Transportation
 San Francisco Airport (SFO) is located 14 miles (22 kilometers) south of San Francisco, San Francisco International Airport serves the cosmopolitan city of San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and the wider Bay Area.
As one of the USA's busiest airports, SFO handles both domestic flights and international connections for the Pacific Rim, Europe, and Latin America.
You can check the flight information at the website of the airport: SFO flight Info.
Hotels near the SFO airport are pointed out at the left map. Most of them are located along El Camino Real.
How to go San Francisco from SFO? The following listing provides some ways.
1, Ride the BART Rapid Rail at SFO International Terminal Boarding Area G. If you are not at the Boarding Area G, you need to take the free AirTrain from any termials. It costs about $5 from SFO to downtown San Francisco. BART runs every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends.
2, Take the Caltrain from Millbrae Station to San Jose or San Francisco.
You need to take the BART to Millbrae Station first, then transfer the Caltrain
3, Take SamTrans Public Bus Service, a 24-hour service connecting SFO to San Mateo County and parts of San Francisco and Palo Alto. It costs less than $5 to SF.
4, Taxis depart from the taxi zones located at the roadway center islands, on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level of all terminals. It costs about $25-37 for a taxi riding from SFO to downtown SF.
5, Car Rental. There is a car rental center in SFO. You can go there by free airtrain. For car rental it costs about $30-80 per day.
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Category: Transportation
Top 5 Rental Car Companies and Vehicles:
1.) Hertz Auto Rentals - A wide selection of Fords and other makes. Recent intermediate airport quote around \$325 per week with all taxes. (415-771-2200 @ Union Square). An increasing number of really modern Hyundai sedans and SUV's with Hertz.
2.) Dollar Car Rentals - focused on Chrysler's. Recent intermediate airport quote around $250 per week with all taxes.(415-771-5302 @ Union Square).
3.) Enterprise Rent a Car - Focused on local rentals but with an expanding airport presence. Recent intermediate quote around $190 per week (non-airport) with all taxes. (415-441-2100 @ Union Square)
4.) Budget Car Rental - Recent intermediate airport quote around $240 per week with all taxes. (415- 928-7864 @ Union Square)
5.) Avis Rental Cars - Focused on General Motors products including Hummer SUV's! Higher priced, premium business-focused service. Recent intermediate airport quote around $325 per week with all taxes. (415- 885-5011 @ Union Square).
6.) Rental Center at SFO Airport
Take the AirTrain Blue Line from the termials to the rental car center. For more details for car rental at SFO, go to the airport website.
7.) Renral Car Center at OAK airport
Take the Rental Car Shuttle from terminals to Rental Car Center; Then transfer to agency shuttle at the Rent Car Center. OAK Car Rentals will give more details.
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Category: Transportation
 OAK airport is about 20 miles west from downtown San Francisco. International flights are limited to Mexico. Terminal 2 is for Southwest Airlines, Terminal 1 is for all other airlines.
Flight information can be checked at OAK flight status.
The Hotels near Oak airport is listed on the map.
About the transportation from OAK to downtown San Fransisco, please see below.
1, Take the BART at COLISEUM/OAKLAND AIRPORT Station to San Francisco. You need to take AirBart shuttle from Stops to OAK Bart Station. Shuttle Stops for Terminals 1 and 2 located at OAK's third curbside. AirBART costs $3 and BART to SF costs about $3.20.
2, AC transit Line N
Runs an hourly service at night between the airport and downtown Oakland and downtown San Francisco (at the Transbay Terminal at First and Mission streets). Costs about $3.00.
3, Take a cab;
Average taxi fare from downtown San Francisco is $50
4, Amtrak
It's inconvenient to take Amtrak from OAK to San Francisco. You need to transfer to Bus at Emeryville. It takes more than 1.5 hours
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Category: Shopping
San Francisco is famous for the best shopping in the Bay area. Here is a listing of interesting shopping places and centers in SF. You can find these places in the San Francisco Map.
1, Union Square
301 Post St
Upscale shopping center; Branded stores: Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Coach and a lot more.
2, Valencia Street Shopping in Mission Disctrict
Small unique gifts; Funky housewares; Featured stores: Home Remedies, Paxton Gate, Rayon Vert
3, Grant Avenue in Chinatown
Cheap and unique chinese gifts; Dim Sum Restaurants; Chinese Arts and Culture;
See our guide for Chinatown San Francisco Shopping
4, Chestnut Street in Marina District
4 blocks long street with Shops, restaurants, coffee houses with local flavor
5, Fillmore Street in Pacific Heights
Fillmore Street from Jackson St to Geary Blvd; Featured shops: Smith & Hawken Garden; Nest; BR Acupuncture; Fillmore Florist
6, Haight Street on Haight Ashbury area
High-end clothing stores; hip restaurants; Featured Shops: Shoe Biz; Memphis Minnies; Magnolia Pub & Brewery
7, Japantown
Located 1 mile west from union squre, Japanton is also known as "Little Osaka" and "J Town".
Japanese restaurants(Try the fresh Sushi); Supermarkets; Kinokuniya bookstore chain;
8, Ferry Building (1 The Embarcadero)
Bi-weekly food market for organic produce, meats, artisan cheeses and wine
Cookware and tableware; Fine & Casual Restaurants
9, Westfield San Francisco Centre
865 Market St. San Francisco, CA phone-(415)512 6776
Top five-story Nordstrom's; Two-level Abercrombie; Bloomindales store
10, Hayes Valley Shopping in the Theatre District
Blend of art and commerce; Art galleries; Interior design studios; outdoor cafes and wine bars.
11, Ghirardelli Square in North Beach
900 N Point ST.
Home to some of the finest views, galleries, boutiques, culinary treats and special events near Finsherman's Wharf.
12, Stonetown Galleria (Sunset District)
20th Ave.
Gifts, home decor, fashion, and foods, plus banks, movie theaters, and medical offices
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Category: For Kids
There is a host of attractions in San Francisco that are specially designed to please the kids and adults as well. The real family vacation treats for the youngsters of the family are as follows:
1. Exploratorium
3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA
Open hours: Tue-Sun 10am-5pm
Superb fun for kids lies in Tactile Dome, where kids can only use non-visual senses to get through a three-dimensional labyrinth in complete darkness. There is host of other marvelous displays and exhibits, most notably the Traits of Life, Seeing, Matter/World, Mind and Learning, Hearing, etc.
Claustrophobics, children less than 7, women expecting to deliver, and those suffered from back or knee injuries are strictly forbidden in Tactile Dome.
2. Alcatraz
An Alcatraz Night Tour is a must for the little ones who are fascinated with stories about the Escape from Alcatraz. Sightings of Alcatraz?s unique roses, nest building and egg laying seabirds, and California slender salamander can also be fun.
Sandals, leather-soled shoes, high heels and open-toe shoes should be avoided. Always dress in layers since weather on Alcatraz is liable to change. Kidz Tourz available though, children are always expected to be accompanied by adult
3. Zeum
221 Fourth St, San Francisco, CA
Open hours: Wed-Sun 11am-5pm
Multimedia tools in Reality Check, Sound Walk, MetaField Maze, Animators Studio, Production Lab, Digital Workshop, and Zeum Theater to inspire kids to create their own art, music, media, movies, performances and more.
4. San Francisco Zoo (Children?s Zoo)
1 Zoo Road, San Francisco, CA
Open hours: Mon-Sun 10am-5pm, Mon-Sun 10am-4:30pm (Children?s Zoo)
In the specially designed Children?s Zoo, kids can groom domestic animals at the Family Farm, peer fruit flies through microscopes in the Insect Zoo, and crawl through tunnels in the Meerkats and Prairie Dogs exhibit area. African Savannah, Australian Walkabout, Eagle Island, Primate Discovery Center, Wetlands, Lion House, and Koala Crossing are also wonderful to explore.
Do not tease, whistle or yell at any animals. No pets allowed. Do not feed the animals except domestic animals in Family Farm of the Children?s Zoo. Children should always be kept at a safe distance from predators.
5. San Francisco Cable Car Museum
1201 Mason St, San Francisco, CA
Open hours: Mon-Sun 10am-6pm (April 1-September 30), Mon-Sun10am-5pm (October 1-March 31)
Hop on board the Powell-Mason or the Powell- Hyde line to visit this free educational attraction, to watch how actual cable cars work, ring a genuine cable car bell, peek at the underground cabling system, view the original Powell Cable Car, Grip Car No. 8 and a variety of fascinating gears and gadgets relating to cable cars.
Background noises remind you that this museum is also a working powerhouse, but nothing bests the price.
6. Aquarium of Bay
Embarcadero at Beach Street, San Francisco, CA
Open hours: Daily 9am-8pm (summer), Mon-Thu 10am-7pm and Fri-Sun 10am-8pm (other seasons)
Activities for the little ones abound, in all main exhibit areas such as Discover the Bay, Under the Bay, Touch the Bay and Save the Bay. Kids will especially love the idea of camping out ?underwater? in the transparent tunnels
Most action happens during the Grab-A-Bite, Sevengill Shark Feeding, Tide Pool Feeding Presentation, and Bat Ray Feeding Presentation. Call 1-888-SEA-DIVE for information about feeding time.
Rather small and costly, not worthy of a stand-alone day trip. Consider visiting if part of Citypass, or you?re already at Pier 39.
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Category: Education/Academic
1) The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), one of the world's leading centers of health sciences research, patient care, and education. UCSF's medical, pharmacy, dental, nursing, and graduate schools are among the top health science professional schools in the world. For more details, pls go to http://www.ucsf.edu
2) University of San Francisco is a private Jesuit and Catholic University in San Francisco. USF was established in 1855. USF's MBA program was ranked among the Top 100 in 2004 by the Wall Street Journal and the Princeton Review ranked it among the Top 143 in 2005. For details, pls check http://www.usfca.edu/ .
3) San Francisco state university, is a public university located in the southwestern San Francisco.
For more details, pls check http://www.sfsu.edu/
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Category: Things To Do/Attractions
1. Think Escape
1 Mission St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 800-823-7249
Passenger buses, limousine or racing sailboat, plus plenty of free pizza- the most exciting and extraordinary way to party in San Francisco. Packages covering free VIP entrances and free shots in choice nightclubs are available.
Dress yourself properly, since most San Francisco Nightclubs have very strict dress code.
2. Tower Tours
865 Beach St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-345-8687, 866-345-8687
Superb group tour operator customizes personalized tours around San Francisco, Muir Woods, Saucilito, and Northern California as far as the Yosemite, wine country and more.
3. Super Sightseeing Tours
2627 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-353-5310, 877-577-7722
Guided sightseeing tours aboard luxurious motorcoaches and minivans through the Bay Area and beyond. Dinner cruises and helicopter city tours also available.
Restrooms available only on full size coaches. Those on mini coaches should take advantage of rest stop opportunities along the route.
4. Local Tastes of the City Tours
2179 12th Ave, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-665-0480
Eat your way through the culinary and cultural delights of North Beach/Little Italy, Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, and more. Enjoy everything from pastries and cappuccinos to dim sum and teas to fresh seafood and sweet confectioneries.
Average tour size limited to less than 10 people. For larger groups, call for specially customized tours.
5. Haunted Haight Walking Tour
1206 Masonic Ave, San Francisco, CA
A two-hour eerie evening walking tour filled with ghostly feeling and spooky stories in haunted places around the Haight-Ashbury.
No accounts on Halloween weekend. Children under 13 years of age are not recommended for this tour. Bring a jacket, since this neighborhood is on the "fog belt" and the evenings in are notoriously cold.
6. Alcatraz Night Tour
100 N Point St, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-705-5555
The scenic vista of the neon-lit city and the creepiest parts of the Alcatraz are just about to be unfolded as the sun sets.
Book your ticket early, this unique tour is available to just a certain number of visitors every evening, and special programs, such as Hospital Tour fill up quickly. Comfortable walking shoes and warmer clothing are necessary.
7. San Francisco Vista Grande Helicopter Tour
Pier 39, San Francisco, CA
Phone: 800-400-2404, 650-635-4500
Aerial views of San Francisco?s picturesque skyline, Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz, Bay Bridge, and Golden Gate Bridge are simply jaw-dropping.
Each adult is required to carry an ID of some sort, such as a photo ID, driver's license with picture or passport. Two passengers minimum for each flight, so if you're arriving solo, you might be put on standby.
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Category: Others
From the aspect of traditional, there are San Francisco Chronicle and San Francisco Examiner.
From the aspect of Alternatives, there are San Francisco Bay Guardian and S.F. Weekly, and San Francisco Times.
sfgate.com, examiner.com, singtaousa.com, sf-frontlines.com, beyondchron.org are the online versions.
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Category: Others
You can find a doctor at http://www.sfhp.org/visitors/find_a_doctor.aspx
You can find famous medical center at http://www.addictionsearch.com/treatment_facilities/city/san-francisco/CA/clinics-and-medical-centers_1.html
The UCSF Medical Center is the major research and medical teaching hospitals of UCSF. It has been ranked as the 7th-best overall medical center in the United States by U.S.News & World Report.
If you are in urgentcy to find a doctor, you can consult with the hotel reception to get the nearest local hospitals or clinics.
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Category: Others
With two great sales locations (3800 Geary Blvd. @ 2nd Ave,San Francisco, CA 94118, 415-750-8300; 1701 Van Ness Ave. @ Sacramento San Francisco, CA 94109
415-750-8300) and three convenient service centers, San Francisco Toyota has been the Bay Area's finest Toyota dealer for 40 years.
You can get more details at http://www.sftoyota.com/
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Category: Others
Mercedes-Benz of San Francisco is located at 500 8th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103;Phone: 1-888-864-7719;Fax: 1-415-673-6100
For more detailed info, pls check http://www.sfbenz.com/
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Category: Others
BMW of San Francisco. 1675 Howard St. San Francisco,CA 94103. Phone:888-692-6973. You can get more details in http://www.bmwsf.com .
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Category: Others
The San Francisco Honda is located in the 10 South Van Ness Avenue,San Francisco, CA. sales phone: 415-913-5148 or 800-578-5986. service phone:415-913-5185 or 800-734-5780. More information you can get from http://www.sfhonda.com .
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Category: Others
S & C Ford, Address: 2100 Markrt St. San Francisco,CA 94114.
Phone: 415-431-8100.
More information can find on the http://scford.dealerconnection.com/?lang=en
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