San Francisco Hotels

If it exists, you’ll find here. San Francisco is like a giant cocktail – you’re never really sure what the ingredients are, but you know you want to drink it for the rest of your life.

The mix starts at Fisherman’s Wharf for relaxing seafood snacking, then ferries over to The Rock for a tour of Alcatraz. Shake it up in San Fran’s Chinatown and then see the star of the show, the Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Point, Baker Beach or Marin Headlands – or get the true experience by walking straight across it.

There’s really no part of San Francisco where you won’t find action (whatever sort you may be looking for…). From the shopping at Union Square to the seedy and aptly named Tenderloin area, the city is a collection of wonderful discoveries to be made. Haight Ashbury is a case in point. The capital of counter-culture in the 1960s, it fell into decline as swiftly as it rose to prominence. Now, though, new money is restoring this Victorian neighbourhood with some real architectural gems to its former glory.

So if you’re going to San Francisco, you could, like the old song says, wear flowers in your hair. Or you could dress more conventionally and still be assured of a far-out time, man.

SAN FRANCISCO’S TOP 10

SAN FRANCISCO LOCAL

The Castro District

It’s not so much about sights to see as it is people to watch. The heart of the gay and lesbian community of San Fran, this is best place to get your lippy on and strut your stuff. Hop from bar to bar or settle in a watch the crowds; all the best people come to this side of town.

Apart from excellent bars, clubs like Badlands and Metro Bar, the Castro District is home to The Castro Theatre, an art deco cinema showing independent films from across the globe.

If you don’t know where to start, you can always take the Castro: Tales of the Village walking tour, which takes in sights like the Metropolitan Community Church San Francisco and the gossip about all the fun that goes down during Pride Week.

And don’t forget to pay your respects to Harvey Milk. If you’re not sure who that is, ask Sean Penn.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Although a pretty popular spot for tourists, it really is the best of the waterfront districts. Check out the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, Aquarium of the Bay or San Francisco Maritime Museum, or just sit back and have someone bring you seafood and beers all day.

The Wharf is home to some of the best restaurants in town, such as Mandarin or The Crab Cake Lounge. If you’re on a budget, it’s great to get some takeaway, sit down and take in the views.

A little bonus, the Wharf is close to Chinatown and Alcatraz, so you can take your time and then head off to your next destination.

Chinatown

Another of San Fran’s feasts for the senses. Take in the sights, the sounds, the smells and, of course, the dumplings.

In one of America’s oldest Chinatowns you’ll see paper lanterns hung everywhere, kites flying and, most importantly, the Dragon Gate. Pose under it to make sure everyone knows you’re a tourist.

While you’re there, make sure you hit the big time sensory overloads at the Red Blossom Tea Company, The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company and the House of Nanking.

North Beach

What would a trip to San Fran be without checking out its famous Red Light District?

If your two favourite things are naked bodies and pizza, you’re in luck. You’re a little odd and specific in your tastes, but you’re in luck.

Where else could you find strip clubs and Italian food in such close proximity. Wander through Broadway to discover San Fran’s Little Italy, stopping at Golden Boy Pizza for a slice and JUG of wine. Yes, a jug.

Or get sexy at the Bamboo Hut (with indoor waterfall) or The Dragon Bar.

And remember, don’t stare at people – it’s not nice.

SAN FRANCISCO EAT & DRINK

SAN FRANCISCO EVENTS

Let’s be honest, with all the cocktails, frocks and partying, do you really need specific events to keep you occupied in San Fran?

Oh you do? OK, well here they are.

All year round there’s plenty of sporting action to see – most notably from the Giants (baseball) and the 49ers (NFL). Book in advance.

March sees the Street Performer’s Festival at Pier 39, which celebrates the best in busker talent from around the world. Put your hat down, you might make a quick buck.

Japantown wakes up in April with the Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration of the culture, food and art of Japan. BYO chopsticks.

The San Francisco International Film Festival also rolls around in April. The festival attracts famous film-makers and independents from around the world.

June ushers in the Union Street Festival and Haight Street Fair, with craft and art vendors, food stalls and performers.

Held on the last Saturday in June and attracting over one million people, San Fran hosts what is probably the most important and influential Gay Pride Parade in the world. Get proud – it’s raining men!

The Fillmore Street Jazz Festival is one of the most important celebrations of jazz in the world. Get your scat on; this festival coincides with Independence Day (so 4 July). Did we mention it’s free?

WHEN TO GO

With water on three sides and a Mediterranean climate, the weather in San Francisco is quite moderate for most of the year. But beware – it can get quite cold unexpectedly, so pack a jacket in case the fog sets in.

A general guide to the seasons:

• Winter (November to February): 8-17°C (46-63°F)
• Spring (March to May): 9-17°C (48-63°F)
• Summer (June to August) 11-18°C (52-64°F)
• Autumn (September to October) 12-21°C (54-70°F)

GETTING AROUND

BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) trains link the San Francisco and Oakland airports to the city.

Most San Franciscans don’t even own cars, as getting around is a cinch. Use the public transport of trams, trolley, and buses

If you’re feeling adventurous, hire some skates and roll your way across the city.

WHAT TO MISS

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not – You can play this game wandering the streets and clubbing from bar to bar. Why pay the entry? Look up the records online and then get out and experience it.

Don’t call it Frisco. The locals hate it.

Be careful if you’re visiting the Tenderloin district. There are a lot of homeless people and the occasional drug dealer, so keep your smarts about you.

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