|
Leave behind your busy, matter-of-fact American
persona. San Francisco opens its heart to the quirky, artistic side of you, teasing
you with the gentle mysteries of summertime fog, balmy breezes and bold European
influences.
The distinctive European flavor of San Francisco is accented
by a growing number of specialty museums, lively theatre and a happening music
scene. From the serene sailboats at the
Embarcadero to the frenzied crowds at Market Street, the City unfolds new secrets
and spectacles at every turn. We'll start
our tour of San Francisco by joining the motley throngs South of Market Street.
Because you love to laugh, head straight for the Cartoon Art Museum. With a smile
on your face and a skip in your step, check out The
Pickwick on 85th Street. Built in 1926, the famous hotel was featured in the
classic mystery novel: The Maltese Falcon. French Provincial influences are unmistakable
in the hotel's tastefully done interiors. Just
a short way off, The Museum of Modern Art looks imposing with its solid architecture
and stylish interplay of brick and glass. Just
2 Blocks from the Museum, the Mosser
Hotel offers an eclectic view of SoMa (South of Market) District. Built in
1913 for the Pan American Exposition, the hotel boasts of beautiful period fixtures
and furnishings. A few quick steps, and you'll come across another monument that's
almost synonymous with San Francisco hospitality: The Monticello
Inn on Ellis Street was built in 1906 and features a cozy library reflecting
its laid-back European charm. Take a
short detour into legendary Geary Street, before you check out the California
Historical Society nearby. Transformed
into a true work of Art from specially commissioned photos by Jean Baptiste Mondino
and sculpture surround by Gerard Garouste, The
Clift Hotel is critically acclaimed for its artistic treasures. The Art Exhibition
in the Redwood Room is a must-see while in San Francisco. Voted
the “Best Small Hotel” in 1995 by Travel and Leisure Magazine, the Savoy
Hotel (Geary St) holds court in the very heart of the Theater district. Another
gem on Geary St, the Maxwell
stands out for its Art deco and theatrical influences. For
the real taste of San Francisco, head for the 1912 landmark Hotel
Diva , acclaimed for the “Best Interior Design” by Interiors Magazine. Referred
to as “The San Francisco trendsetter, in a city incandescent by motion, integrated
by cultures and inspired by lifestyles, the Hotel
Diva epitomizes what the San Francisco influence should be.” More-->> | 
