Hello, San Francisco

I came to San Francisco on the way back from Australia 20 years ago.  It was November, cold, wet, we were hard up & it all seemed a bit scary.  Now both the city and me have changed, and for the better.  We're staying in a lovely hotel Inn@Union Square We've got a suite with a comfy sitting area, 2 flat screen tvs. bath robes!  The breakfast is continental, and is served in a lobby,  which is just outside our room so we can fetch the pastries & coffee & eat in our room.  The staff are very friendly and helpful, I think it's one of the best hotels I've ever stayed in.

We were a bit jetlagged after the flight.  Had a nice meal on Friday night at Rose's café to celebrate my birthday.

 Then yesterday got up quite late, had a leisurely morning and then walked to Fisherman's Wharf.  On the way found some good gift shops, and the bookshop frequented by Ginsberg & Kerouac - it had a section called 'Muckraking'.  American book prices seem very reasonable so I may have another excuse to buy things.

The wharf was packed with tourists, and apart from nice views of the bay wasn't that interesting. We got the F line along the piers to Embarcadero - managed to get a seat so didn't have to wobble around like those standing.








We then did some browsing - Macy's, Ghirardelli chocolate shop, Merrell outdoor clothing where Leon bought a very nice new jacket.

In the evening we went to a cocktail bar in the neighbourhood of Tenderloin (also known as Tender Nob much to our amusement cos it's near Nob hill) Had excellent cocktails - Basil Gimlet with gin, very refreshing. 


Although there are a lot of beggars, it feels an unthreatening place.  Lots of buskers, and just a lovely vibe.