The old San Francisco hotels, such as the Hotel Majestic along Sutter Street, are among the earliest hotels built in the entire country. The local hotel industry goes back around 300 years, even before the United States became the single nation it is today. While the concept of hospitality may have existed much earlier, the colonial age opened up the first hotels in the New World.

America’s early years saw a westward migration from the East Coast, although settlements had already existed in the west. The hotel industry, which at the time were in the form of inns, moved with the migration, setting up shop further inland. Inns and lodgings were as much of a luxury back then as today.

San Francisco’s hotel industry didn’t kick off until 1875 with the establishment of its first hotel (and an ornate one, to boot). By the early 1900s, affordable hotels surfaced all over the U.S., such as the motels for business travelers on tight budgets. However, more classy hotels were also built during the period like the Hotel Majestic, which was known at that time as the Majestic Hotel.

Despite the change in the hospitality business – from inns to fancy hotels – many believe that its three main elements will never go out of style. These are the food, the lodging, and the beverage; the key elements that define hospitality in a nutshell. Hotels today perform the duties the inns of the colonial period did, which was providing a place to stay and a hearty meal.

As the modern hotel braces for an influx of tourists racing to get a vacancy, the basic principle of hospitality will remain as it was hundreds of years ago. Even if cars were to fly and buildings were to float on magnetic levitation, the hotel concept will be pretty much unchanged from its colonial period predecessors. This defines the charm that any vintage hotel in San Francisco can boast of.

Technorati Tags: hotel, hotels, San Francisco, union square

A Look Into the Humble Beginnings of the Fabled San Francisco Hotels in Union Square

Price

Before choosing among the many luxurious San Francisco boutique hotels being advertised, you have to be clear on your budget for accommodations. Almost every major online booking engine allows users to sort results by price. After narrowing down your options, visit the sites of each hotel, and compare their rates. You may also read up on discounts and promos that they offer for customers who book directly on their site.

Location

Another important consideration is the hotel’s location. Determine what activities you’d like to do while in town and find accommodations that will make it easy for you to get to these places. Choose a hotel that is situated in a neighborhood that you want to explore, or is accessible through various modes of transportation to popular points of interest for visitors.

Amenities

Aside from price and location, consider the available amenities that can make your stay in the hotel more comfortable and memorable. If you’re only staying for a week or more, a hotel with a fitness center, swimming pool, or a variety of restaurants can be quite convenient. Also consider how family-friendly a hotel is. Your kids should have access to activities specifically designed for them, to make sure that the adults aren’t the only ones enjoying the vacation.

Luxury

Every once in a while, it’s necessary to indulge in the finer things in life. Splurging on a fancy hotel stay is a great way to break your routine. Extravagances like bathing in a bear-claw tub or sleeping in a four-post bed can be experienced at some of the luxurious San Francisco downtown hotels such as the famous Hotel Majestic.

Planning your vacation shouldn’t cause you stress. By knowing exactly what to look for, you can easily narrow down your options, and make choices you won’t regret. Keep the abovementioned pointers in mind and you can surely find a hotel that would make every minute of your holiday memorable.

Technorati Tags: Fog City, hotel, hotels, San Francisco

Choosing from Luxurious San Francisco Boutique Hotels

Call ahead.

Most people say that it’s the thought that counts, but a little effort when it comes to relationships will definitely not hurt. Ladies love it when their man puts some thought into their stay by calling the hotel ahead of time and arranging for flowers or her favorite dessert. Having such things waiting for the couple in their hotel room add a delightfully heartwarming touch.

Tease your senses.

The right music is a good way to set the proper romantic atmosphere in your hotel getaway. Don’t forget to take some specially chosen music along with you. Another clever trick is to dab or spray a little scent on a light bulb to let the subtle bouquet waft through the room. These are two effective ways to stimulate your senses and make your stay more memorable.

Dress for the occasion.

Even if you do not have any formal occasion to attend, it’s a good idea to wear outfits that have significance to your relationship. Wear something out of the ordinary to make your stay more special. Imagine how surprised your partner will be to find you dressed to the nines, waiting with a bouquet of fresh flowers and a bottle of champagne.

Prepare for the morning after.

Breakfast in bed is essential. Make sure that you wake up before your partner does and have her favorite treats delivered to your room. If you’re on a budget, buy something from a shop outside the hotel. Just remember to leave a note, in case your partner wakes up before you get back.

People in relationships should never be too busy for romance. Little indulgences such as visits to premiere hotels in San Francisco CA, like the Hotel Majestic, help keep romance alive. With these thoughts in mind, even an overnight stay can turn into one of the most precious memories the two of you would cherish.

Technorati Tags: hotel, hotels, Romantic Hotels, San Francisco

Hot Ideas for Staying at Romantic Hotels in San Francisco

If you want a feel of the Bay Area’s historical heritage, you can stay in one of those quaint hotels in San Francisco CA, such as the Hotel Majestic, which are right at the heart of the city and give you access to most of its attractions. The first thing to do after checking in is to buy a San Francisco City Pass, which includes a seven-day unlimited access to all public transportation, and discount charges to select attractions. Take the time as well to buy a map and plan your activities.

The Water

If you fancy yourself as a man of the sea, you can hit Pier 39 in the Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Maritime Museum. Pier 39 itself is a market-goer’s delight with over 120 stores to visit and many fun-filled attractions. Fisherman’s Wharf is never complete without a taste of the walk-away sundae, the famous clam chowder, and the sourdough French bread, plus a view of the attack submarine SS Pampanito. The Maritime Museum exhibits icons of the city’s seafaring traditions.

Art!

When an artistic side of you practically screams to be let out, indulge for free at the Museum of Modern Art and the Asian Art Museum. They offer free admission on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, respectively. Also take the time to relish the sights at the Palace of Fine Arts.

In the Shadow of the Bridge

To behold the magnificent sight of the Golden Gate Bridge is the height of every San Francisco trip, especially if you actually get to walk the entire span. Furthermore, the south side of the span has Baker Beach, China Beach, and Crissy Field to stretch your legs in. Always layer up because even in the summertime, it’s still rather cold in San Francisco.

Any visitor will have every reason to make the most of the wonderful Bay Area experience. Getting a room in charming hotels in Japantown San Francisco, such as the Hotel Majestic, keeps you closer to the places worth visiting.

Technorati Tags: Bay Area, Fisherman Wharf, Hotel Majestic, San Francisco

Great Vacations Begin with Good Accommodations at Hotels in San Francisco CA

The Plains of the West offer endless opportunities for travelers wishing to see more of the Bay Area than the residents will let on. The streets of San Francisco are safe and provide great opportunities for visitors to create lasting memories, especially if they want to experience the SF of yesteryear. Naturally, the adventure of a lifetime starts by securing quality accommodation in good parts of the city. Boutique hotels in San Francisco California such as the Hotel Majestic are a good place to start.

When booking a place for your Bay Area vacation, you have to make sure it is close enough to as many attractions as possible. This will reduce your walking time. If you fancy cable car rides, the California Street line offers a break from anything plying Powell St. In due time, you can reach Upper Fillmore, Van Ness Ave., and Stockton, which offers great views of the Bay Bridge.

No trip to San Francisco will ever be complete without a trip to Alcatraz. Closed in 1963 on the orders of then-Attorney-General Robert Kennedy, the Rock boasts of extensive flora and fauna as well as a chance to be a temporary “guest” of the cellblock. The place also has a museum to honor the Native American occupation of 1964. Other classic places worth checking out include Chinatown, Mission Dolores, and the Jack Kerouac Alley.

If the long trip is too exhausting, an Edwardian hotel in San Francisco such as the Hotel Majestic will have enough amenities to nurse you back to fighting fitness. If you are already too tired to go out and hit the other food joints nearby, an onsite restaurant and bar is a convenient option. A lounge can offer a chance for guests to make new friends amidst soothing music. This hotel could facilitate a romantic night for couples with room packages inclusive of time-honored classic touches of roses and chocolates.

Learning which places in San Francisco have stood the test of time will encourage you to go back again and again. You will indeed leave your heart in the city.

Technorati Tags: Bay Area, Hotel Majestic, Jack Kerouac Alley, San Francisco

Back in Time – Checking in at Boutique Hotels in San Francisco California

There are hundreds of hotels for you to choose from. Tired of the traditional, plain, single bed, and white-walled hotels? It’s time for you to try staying at boutique hotels San Francisco California guests have come to love. The city’s boutique hotels are known for putting away the cookie cutter and providing customers, instead, with a more personalized experience. These types of establishments are perfect if you’re looking for a unique lodging with a luxurious feel.

Boutique hotels often follow certain themes upon which their architecture, furniture, amenities, and decorations are based. Also called design or lifestyle hotels, these commercial properties could either be trendy or historic, depending mainly on their target market. Common themes are related to the arts, music, vintage styles, and renowned artists. This is because the major patrons of boutique hotel services are in the 25-55 age range, usually business travelers, vacationers, and honeymooners.

To make their guests’ experience more authentic and memorable, boutique hotel owners spend a lot of time and effort in acquiring pieces of fixtures, paintings, and accessories to give a genuine atmosphere to their rooms, lobbies, and other areas. If you want to sleep and dine within a classic and elegant ambiance, an Edwardian hotel San Francisco tourists book, like the Hotel Majestic near Union Square, best captures the beauty of a grand era with its fine fittings and detailed structure.

Most people say that the “best things come in small packages;” and that phrase perfectly captures the essence of boutique hotels. With no more than a hundred rooms, these accommodations won’t make you feel crowded or overwhelmed by the other guests in the lobbies, elevators, or hallways. These hotels foster a sense of closeness and warmth among visitors and staff. Because these hotels aren’t as busy as their large chain counterparts, their staff provide professional personalized services that can make you feel welcomed and pampered.

Boutique hotels in San Francisco thrive on giving a variety of choices for travelers. If you’re looking for a boutique hotel near San Francisco’s sights and sounds, you can easily find one through online travel guides, magazines, or by asking friends who’ve been there. Have a pleasant stay at the City by the Bay!

Technorati Tags: boutique, hotel, hotels, San Francisco

Boutique Hotels in San Francisco: A Hip and Historic Experience for Travelers

However, studies show that 40 to 50 percent of marriages in America are likely to end in divorce. The flames of love and passion die out if couples do not regularly spend time with each other and do things together. Arguments, misunderstandings, and a lack of physical and emotional intimacy contribute to the deterioration of a marriage. There are numerous ways to improve your relationship with your spouse; and probably one of the most effective means is to go on a holiday together, detaching yourselves from your usual worries.

It is difficult to set a romantic and passionate setting in a messy kitchen. If you already have kids, then you and your spouse probably find yourselves cutting back on your privacy—even in your own bedroom. While certain things are considered to be good aphrodisiacs, the noise in your household is surely not one of them. San Francisco boutique hotels like Hotel Majestic offer numerous accommodations with impressive facilities which can help you and your spouse spend quality time with each other.

Jacuzzis, candle-lit suites, and breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay help set the mood for couples who just want to make the most out of their romantic getaway. Add to that the fact that the downtown area is brimming with interesting sites, and you are not likely to run out of things to keep you happily occupied. Of course, a few surprises like champagne in the balcony or breakfast in bed would definitely be more than welcome.

The good thing about the various hotels San Francisco CA travelers recommend is that they offer you a wide range of options. Whether you want to stay at a well-known international hotel chain or opt for a quaint lodge away from the main district, you can be sure there’s bound to be a romantic room that would best suit you and your partner. You just need to determine what your needs and preferences are.

Technorati Tags: hotel, hotels, Romantic Hotels, San Francisco

Romantic Hotels in San Francisco: Reigniting the Flames of Romance

DO read customer reviews

Although there are a lot of hotels available, you may opt to choose one that garners many positive reviews from tourists and vacationers. The best ones are usually costly, but the price can save you tons of headaches and disappointments because you can expect an accommodation that meets—if not exceeds—your expectations.

DON’T settle for anything less

Don’t rent a hotel room just for the sake of having a place to sleep. If you go for a bargain room, there’s a good chance you may not enjoy your vacation to the fullest. A cramped space or a leaky toilet is the last thing you want to think of on your holiday. You don’t get a vacation every day, so you might as well make the most of it. Staying in a vintage hotel San Francisco travelers recommend, for instance, can be a pleasant alternative from the usual hotels that abound. You can also be creative and choose a quaint bed and breakfast on the outskirts of the city, or at least in a district that doesn’t have much traffic. This way you get a better feel of local life.

DO rent a car

For convenience’s sake, it’s best to rent a car whenever you’re visiting San Franciso’s tourist sites and cityscapes. Relying on the public transportation system may not always be practical, as it would restrict your schedule. This is particularly true if you’re pressed for time. Having your own ride will give you the flexibility to go to more places on your own time without having to worry about catching the bus or train.

DO relish every moment

There are many San Francisco hotels Union Square offers, and definitely many interesting places to visit. But in the midst of everything, don’t forget to cherish every site you stumble across, every interesting dish you tried. Ditch your strict schedule and let go of your fear of missing out—it will only hinder your wonderful experience. Just kick back and enjoy yourself; having fun is, after all, the whole point of your vacation.

Technorati Tags: hotel, hotels, San Francisco, union square

The Dos and Don’ts When Staying at San Francisco Hotels Union Square

If you’re on your honeymoon and accommodations to set the mood are a priority, there’s no lack of romantic hotels in San Francisco to choose from, such as Hotel Majestic. Once billeted at the hotel of your choice, you can go around and discover for yourself what inspired Tony Bennett’s old-time classic.

Port of San Francisco

San Francisco Bay is one of the three great natural harbors in the world. In early days, it was said that all the fleets in the world could find a place to anchor at the Port of San Francisco. Today, to see the port in all its glory, take a bay cruise—what better way to kindle romance?

Alcatraz

While the prison is now abandoned, the very name still sends chills down the spine. Alcatraz’s inmates included Civil War prisoners and the notorious Al Capone; pop culture has cemented its image as an inescapable fortress. Today, the erstwhile prison can be reached by tourists by ferry ride from Pier 33, close to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Fisherman’s Wharf

In San Francisco for the Fourth of July? Don’t miss the breathtaking fireworks display at Fisherman’s Wharf. For the foodie and shopper in you, visit Ghirardelli Square—in itself a landmark—which is right next to a number of San Francisco boutique hotels. There are more restaurants and shops along Pier 39, where the Aquarium of the Bay is another must-see.

Golden Gate Park

Looking for something for everybody? Look no further than Golden Gate Park. Visit the Japanese Tea Garden where cherry trees—symbols of spring and eternal youth—bloom in April and May. If you’re travelling with family, your children can play amidst the park’s gardens; couples, on the other hand, might enjoy a picnic date.

Twin Peaks

Twenty minutes from downtown San Francisco—at the center of the city—are the Twin Peaks. Second only to Mount Davidson in height, the top of the Peaks will allow you an unparalleled view of San Francisco.

Whether you’re travelling alone, as a newly-wed couple, or with family and friends, there’s always something within a stone’s throw of most San Francisco downtown hotels that you will be sure to enjoy. Ride the cable cars, or take a 49-mile drive around San Francisco to discover more attractions. You’ll soon understand why Mr. Bennett left his heart in the City by the Bay.

Technorati Tags: Golden Gate Park, hotels, San Francisco, Twin Peaks

A Spot of Romance: Hit the Tourist Spots then Wind Down and Cozy Up at San Francisco Boutique Hotels

The best way to have a unique experience in the context of your accommodations is to go for a boutique hotel. These hotels have a specific theme or design that is reflected throughout the entire establishment—which makes it different from the homogenized hotels owned by the big hotel chains. A popular style for boutique hotels is Edwardian, like the Hotel Majestic in San Francisco. But how exactly do you determine that you really are in an Edwardian-themed boutique hotel?

The best way to tell whether the place you are in did its homework to ensure an authentic Edwardian experience for guests is to look at its design. In the bedroom, Edwardian décor can be identified by its color palette. Edwardian bedrooms are known for their use of crisp and cheerful—often rather feminine—colors that match the rest of the room’s furnishings.

The furniture that is used in Edwardian hotels in Japantown San Francisco, for example, is elegant and refined. Edwardian furniture is less ornate and delicate than Victorian furniture, mind you. The Edwardian period is known for introducing traditional outdoor furniture, like bamboo and wicker pieces, to interior décor.

An important characteristic of Edwardian architecture is the use of light in the rooms. Natural light is highly valued in

Edwardian rooms, as opposed to Victorian rooms where heavy drapes are the norm. In the bedroom, decorative lamps and overhead chandeliers are used to set the mood.
Edwardian décor also stands apart from other period styles in the use of space in the room. Victorian décor is known for being cluttered and its art, rather intricate and detailed. Edwardian décor, on the other hand, is known for being much less cluttered, and avoids the use of too many prints and patterns.

Whichever style most appeals to you, always make sure that you check into one of the many reputable boutique hotels San Francisco CA has. Read some traveler reviews online so you know what to expect and avoid getting ripped off. Happy hotel hunting!

Technorati Tags: boutique, edwardian, hotel, hotels

Choosing the Best Edwardian Hotels San Francisco CA has