Speaking of hotels, some of the most accommodating and perfectly located include the storied Four Seasons in Union Square, which has a delightful ambiance as expected (gorgeous lobby floral arrangements, exemplary service and staff) and plans for a complete renovation of the spa facilities, which are now shared by the LA Sports Club, not exactly a rarified, intimate environment for the true spa lover (me!).
However, I was informed by spokesperson Lauren Eastman (a naturally cheerful presence and lovely hostess) that a projected new development will have the spa up to snuff within a year or two, since the Millenium Partners Group had purchased the facilities with big, big plans to reflect the Four Seasons’ highest standards.
And of course (if invited…hint, hint), I would be delighted to report on the upgrade. Another fabulous favorite is the historic Fairmont Hotel on Nob Hill with views to challenge the neighboring “Top of the Mark.” This particular landmark hotel has hosted numerous American presidents, was the site of the drafting of the United Nations Charter in 1945 and provided the stage where Tony Bennett first sand, “I Left My Heart In San Francisco” in 1962.
Nob Hill is a perfect place for viewing the astounding bay, the rolling fog and glimpses of Alcatraz. After hiking the hills and vales of this walking city (like Paris!) I was thrilled to be atop Nob Hill, with the clear understanding why this piece of land is so valuable. It’s flat! With views! And very few tourists!
Plus, there are wonderful local restaurants from which to choose. We found a lovely locals’ favorite—Venticelli’s—which was a delight. Small portions, served separately, also reminded us of French service. And, we decided against ordering two entrees because the pacing was so slow, it gave us an opportunity to digest, enjoy the quiet surroundings and delight in a leisurely meal. I think the last time that happened was when we lived in Paris a few years ago. Ah, memories.
Even if you choose not to stay at the Fairmont, you must take in the famed Tonga Room, a funky, kitschy Tikki Bar (remember those?) in favor in the 1940s with Tahitian drinks, a la tiny umbrellas, served in pineapples! Every 30 minutes, this thatch-roofed and artifact-adorned eatery crackles with fun. Literally. Because a faux rainforest thunder and lightning storm takes place in the former swimming pool, around which tables are set. "Rain" pummels the floating island, upon which a band plays Top 40 tunes during the weekend.
And the food was fun and good, not Paris-great, but the experience is worth the funkitude. Plus with an unbeatable Happy Hour ($7 includes an array of edibles including spare ribs, lo mein-type dishes, fresh veggies and more), it is the bargain of the city.
If you need a respite from your day(s) of walking, go across the street from the Fairmont, to the Huntington Hotel and Spa, home of the Nob Hill Spa. Omigod, Julie may have given me the most relaxing massage ever. Asked to fill out an Ayurvedic questionnaire (an Indian massage/personality indicator), I informed the receptionist I knew I was a “Vatta/Pitta” so that was settled.
What I didn’t expect was a massage so relaxing that I began to dream and woke myself up asking a question. When Julie asked me to repeat the question, I realized I was speaking in a dream world, and told her “Never mind,” like one of Gilda Radner’s characters. Needless to say, I’m going back there one day. Hopefully, Julie will still be there! Regardless, it’s a wonderful spa and a boutique hotel, if that’s more to your liking.
Taking a break from the urban scene, we sought solace on the grounds of one of the most historic resort/spas in the area. The Claremont Resort, a stone's throw from the famed University of California/Berkeley, gave us a chance to unwind a day before we had to bid adieu to our West Coast friends.
The resort was originally conceived in 1915 as an English estate, and you will fall in love with its green, lush setting. Meticulously maintained grounds and a staff well-versed in making visitors feel at home earmark this site as a "must-stay" for discerning travelers.
The views are astonishing. We got to see San Francisco from another angle! And be on the look-out for celebs, drawn to the perfect tennis courts, humongous pool and world-class spa that features international treatments (amazing body work!). And don't get me started on the food.
Let's just say I gained a good 10 pounds from this little French-inspired, San Fran trip. All worth it, I might add. Don't miss this place. There's wild fuschia plants! (And I thought they just came in hanging planters!)
For those of us stuck on the other side of the Atlantic craving perhaps even a soupcon of Parisian ambience of croissants, cheese and chocolate worth every calorie…it doesn’t get much better than San Francisco.
Naomi Serviss is a freelance writer specializing in spas, travel and entertainment. She is working on her first novel.
