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Global Traveller
• Confidence is returning to the business travel sector, but companies are not expecting a lightning improvement
• Playing golf is often used in building contacts and professional relationships
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1. Mandarin Oriental
Located on the top 11 floors of Downtown's third-tallest building, this is one of the classiest hotels in the city. Its East-meets-West decor is magnificent, its restaurant one of the finest, and the rooms, amenities, and service superb.
- 222 Sansome St
- (415) 276-9888
- $$$$$ (over $300)*
- Disabled access
- www.mandarinoriental.com
2. The Pan Pacific
Marble bathrooms, some with Jacuzzis, and the fluffiest bathrobes are just some of the comforts at this daringly designed modern hotel. The atrium lobby towers 17 stories high, with a glass elevator. Free use of towncars is a special plus.
- 500 Post St
- (415) 771-8600
- $$$$ ($250 - $300)*
- Disabled access
- www.panpac.com
3. Palace
Dating from 1875, this historic landmark emanates an aura of architectural splendor that nevertheless whispers refinement. The stupefyingly gorgeous Garden Court and the original Maxfield Parrish mural in the Pied Piper Lounge are national treasures. The rooms are wonderful, too, but sadly without views.
- 2 New Montgomery St
- (415) 512-1111
- $$$ ($200 - $250)*
- Disabled access
- www.sfpalace.com
4. Park Hyatt
This is the smallest and most luxurious of the four city Hyatts, and it is situated very near the waterfront. Rooms have good views of the Bay Bridge or the city, if you get the right ones. You'll find that staff greet you by name and the rooms have lots of personal touches.
- 333 Battery St
- (415) 392-1234
- $$$$ ($250 - $300)*
- Disabled access
- www.hyatt.com
5. Sir Francis Drake
Where the doormen wear Beefeater costumes and the cable cars glide by constantly. This splendid Art Deco landmark is just a block off Union Square. All in all, a very festive and colorful feel, both in the public and private rooms.
- 450 Powell St
- (415) 392-7755
- $$$ ($200 - $250)*
- Disabled access
- www.sirfrancisdrake.com
6. Hotel Nikko
High-tech and minimalist white marble interiors radiate modernity in this Japanese-style environment. Its cool comfort and tranquil luxury, such as silk wallpaper, soothe the spirit and free the mind. The excellent Anzu restaurant creates the same peaceful atmosphere.
- 222 Mason St
- (415) 394-1111
- $$$ ($200 - $250)*
- Disabled access
- www.nikkohotels.com
7. Hyatt Regency
The 15-story lobby has long plants trailing down, a waterfall, and glass elevators. Try the revolving restaurant on the roof for its views.
- 50 Drumm St
- (415) 788-1234
- $$$ ($200 - $250)*
- Disabled access
- www.hyatt.com
8. Four Seasons
Designed with the expense-account traveler in mind, this place has thought of every sort of business amenity, including two phone lines and a high-speed Internet connection in each room.
- 757 Market St
- (415) 633-3000
- $$$$$ (over $300)*
- Disabled access
- www.fourseasons.com
9. The Westin St Francis
This grand San Francisco institution still shines in its lovely public rooms, but it's become a tour-group mediocrity otherwise. The tower rooms do have phenomenal views, however.
- 335 Powell St
- (415) 397-7000
- $$$ ($200 - $250)*
- Disabled access
- www.westin.com
10. Ritz-Carlton Resort
A rambling mansion on its own verdant bluff, overlooking the Pacific. The perfect retreat from which to enjoy the Bay Area.
- 1 Miramontes Point Rd, Half Moon Bay
- Disabled access
- (650) 712-7000
- $$$$$ (over $300)*
- www.ritzcarlton.com
