The most attractive of American cities and regularly voted the best city in the USA, San Francisco is adored because of its colourful history, dramatic setting and its laissez-faire atmosphere, a quality missing from synthetic Los Angeles. It is a regular trendsetter in everything alternative, from flower-power to ‘free love’ and gay liberation; it prides itself on being individualistic, down-to-earth and cultured.
Streets rollercoaster up and down the hills, and when not swathed in the city’s trademark fog, there are superb vistas of San Francisco Bay, spanned by one of the world’s most famous sights, the Golden Gate Bridge. Surrounded by hills and urban development, traversed by bridges, dotted with sails and 14 small islands, including the notorious Alcatraz, the bay is the largest inlet on the Californian Coast. Fisherman’s Wharf at the edge of the bay is a popular place to eat, stroll and shop, with its resident seals a favourite photographic subject.
Within the surprisingly compact city are distinct neighbourhoods that reflect the cultural background of diverse communities that were attracted to San Francisco by the discovery of gold in 1848, and the promise of a new life for those desperate to escape their harsh circumstances. Most of San Francisco’s residents were born outside the city and this mix of cultures is reflected in the dragon-studded temples of colourful Chinatown and Japantown, the characteristic bohemian flavour of the Italian pasta restaurants and cappuccino cafes in North Beach, the old Spanish-speaking Mission District that blends with the nightlife of SoMa, the modern Financial District, the gay centre of Castro and The Haight, characterised by the memory of the hippie movement of the 1960s.

Sanfrancisco Video Guide

Golden Gate Bridge Video Guide

Golden Gate Bridge
The rust-coloured towers, graceful suspension and supportive cables of the Golden Gate Bridge make this famous symbol of San Francisco the most photographed bridge in the world, and visible from almost any high point in the city, although it is often shrouded in rolling fog. Spanning the two-mile (3km) mouth of the bay, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time of its completion in 1937 and was built to withstand winds of more than 100 mph (161km per hour). During high winds it can sway up to 27ft (8m) in each direction. One of the great engineering accomplishments of the 20th century, the bridge claims to have used enough wire in its construction to stretch around the earth several times. Walking across the bridge, under the towers that loom 65 storeys above the water, is one of the best ways to experience the immensity of the structure and affords beautiful views of the San Francisco skyline, the bay and its islands. Golden Gate Bridge is also a favourite with the suicidal and the sidewalks are dotted with crisis-counselling phones.

Fisherman’s Wharf Video Guide

Fisherman’s Wharf
Some people love the bustle of Fisherman’s Wharf, while others make a conscious effort to steer well clear of it. But for better or worse it is massively popular, attracting more visitors than any other city sight, with Pier 39 the commercial tourist epicentre. The Wharf was once a fishing port with dozens of boats anchored here. Pier 45 is still used by fishermen in the early morning hours, and fish and seafood can be bought from the Fish Alley Market. There are shops galore, fast food stands and overpriced bay-view restaurants as well as bars, markets, street performers, and an endless variety of activities for the whole family. It is also the gateway for several top attractions: trips to Alcatraz and other bay cruises leave from here; numerous museums include the Historic Ships Pier; and the USS Pampanito submarine that can be boarded from Pier 45. The entertaining colony of sea lions that reside on the floating docks at Pier 39 are one of the best attractions on the quay.

North Beach Video Guide

North Beach
Between Russian and Telegraph Hills, North Beach is San Francisco’s ‘Little Italy’, that has long been the central hub for anyone with alternative inclinations. During the 1950s the pleasure-seeking, non-conformist lifestyle of the Beat Generation and their rebellious literature contributed to the neighbourhood’s unconventional character and tourists poured into the district for ‘Beatnik Tours’. Two of the Beat-era landmarks are the Vesuvio bar, and the first paperback bookstore in the US and hangout of Beat-era writers, the City Lights Bookstore. The steep stairways on Telegraph Hill lead to one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks, Coit Tower, a monument to the volunteer fire fighters of the city providing superb 360-degree views of the city and San Francisco Bay. Inside the round, stone-tower murals of the Great Depression depict different aspects of life in California during the 1930s. The ‘Crookedest Street in the World’ winds down the steep eastern side of Russian Hill, the angle so steep that Lombard Street has to zigzag down with eight sharp turns to make any descent possible. The affluent residents inside their mansions with well-tended flowerbeds that flank the street bemoan the frequent traffic jams as thousands of visitors queue at the top and wait their turn to drive slowly down the tight curves, gathering at the bottom for photographic opportunities.

Golden Gate Park Video Guide

Golden Gate Park
Of the many open green spaces in San Francisco, Golden Gate Park is the biggest and the loveliest stretching from The Haight to the Pacific Ocean, featuring gardens, lakes, numerous sporting facilities, and museums. On Sundays the main drive is closed to traffic and becomes the playground for joggers, cyclists, roller-bladers and strollers. The California Academy of Sciences includes the Natural History Museum, aquarium and planetarium (temporarily relocated to 875 Howard Street until late 2008 due to renovations). The serenity of the Japanese Tea Garden with its bridges, bonsai and fortune cookies is a favourite with tour groups. Although filled with people, the park never seems crowded and there is always a secluded space somewhere on the lawns or in the gardens.

Cable Car Video Guide

Cable Cars
One of San Francisco’s most endearing attractions is its network of 130-year-old cable cars, the only mobile National Historic Landmark in the country, and the world’s only surviving system of cable cars. Many cities adopted the system, but all have since been replaced by more practical means of transport. The perpetuation of these clanking museum pieces was due to determination by the city’s residents and today they remain at the heart of the city’s character. It is an experience to ride up and down the steep gradients of the hills, hanging on while the brass bell clangs, the conductor jingles his coins and the familiar clanking of the cables pulls the car at a constant 9.5 miles (15km) per hour. Many people have difficulty believing that these six-tonne cars can work without engines and the San Francisco Cable Car Museum affords visitors a closer look at the cable-winding machinery, and the ‘home base’ where cars are reeled in and out on 11 miles (17km) of steel cable. The museum also houses some interesting sights, including the first cable car (1873) and scale models of different types of cable cars that were once in use in the city. The idea of the cable car system was conceived by engineer Andrew Hallidie. After watching the uphill struggle of laden horse-drawn carts, he was determined to find a kinder and more efficient means of transportation, which he produced four years later.

Alcatraz Island Video Guide

Alcatraz Island
No longer a prison for some of America’s most dangerous offenders, Alcatraz is part of the National Park Service and is a must-see for visitors to the city. Once on the island, you will certainly be captivated by its history and its incredible beauty. Take your camera because regardless of the view, a photo opportunity awaits. Also, dress in layers (even during the summer months) because the island can be breezy and inside the prison walls it is cold and damp.

Japanese Tea Garden Video Guide

Japanese Tea Garden
Located in Golden Gate Park , this garden is a marvel of the landscape architects art. This traditional Japanese garden covers five acres. Several paths take you by an authentic pagoda, a monumental Buddha, a miniature waterfall, and over an acutely arched bridge that no kid can resist. Overlooking the gardens Koi-filled pond is a Japanese-style tea house, which in spring is covered with a cascade of wisteria. The gift shop sells souvenirs with a Japanese flair.

Lombard Street Video Guide

Lombard Street
This picturesque stretch of Lombard Street has eight angles along a single block. They twist at very acute angles, making for very slow going if you are in a car, though, oddly enough, cars were the reason for designing the street this way back in 1922, the idea being that this design would make it easier for them to negotiate the steep 16-percent grade. The drive is usually bumper-to-bumper and in the summertime, there is almost always a line of cars waiting to take the drive down, so a stroll is a good option, especially when the hydrangeas along the sidewalk are in bloom.

Grace Cathedral Video Guide

Grace Cathedral
This impressive neo-Gothic structure crowning Nob Hill was built on the site of the Crocker Mansion after the 1906 earthquake and fire. The interior features stained glass windows in celestial blues and vibrant reds and yellows. There are also frescoes depicting the history of San Francisco and scenes from the life of San Francisco’s patron saint, St. Francis of Asissi. The gilded bas-reliefs that adorn the doors of the main entrance are cast from Ghiberti’s original molds for the Gates of Paradise that adorn the Baptistry in Florence. This facility also boasts an indoor and an outdoor labyrinth.It has the outdoor labyrinyth made up of Tezzaro stone and the indoor one made up of limestone.

Exploratorium Video Guide

Exploratorium
Developed by physicist Frank Oppenheimer and opened in 1969, this innovative and interactive museum behind the Palace of Fine Arts is dedicated to art, science and human perception. The hands-on displays unveil the mysteries of science and language. The exhibits present theories simply and succinctly. For a different kind of hands-on experience, check out the tactile dome, a labyrinth of different textures that explorers negotiate in the dark. Seminars on quirky subjects are offered on weekends.

HOTEL VIDEO

W Hotel San Francisco Video Guide

W Hotel San Francisco
Designed in the Neo-Classical style, San Fran’s W rises 46 feet above street level in the city’s South of Market district nearby the SF Museum of Modern Art, a five-block walk from Union Square, and a block away from The Metreon (the high-tech Sony entertainment center). The lobby at the SFW is an octagonal, three-story space with tinted solar glass and flowing curtains.

Mark Hopkins InterContinental Video Guide

Mark Hopkins InterContinental
As splendid now as when it opened to great fanfare in 1926, InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco is a luxury property situated in the Nob Hill area, at the crossing of three cable-car lines, and approximately 17 miles from San Francisco International Airport and 22 miles from Oakland International Airport.Hotel amenities include the fitness center, Nob Hill Restaurant, and the legendary Top of the Mark, situated on the 19th floor. The hotel also offers 24-hour room service, shoeshine service, laundry/dry cleaning, currency exchange, babysitting, a newsstand/gift shop, an ATM, and valet parking (fee).

Westin St. Francis Video Guide

Westin St. Francis
Renowned for its legendary service, the historic Westin St. Francis boasts luxurious guest rooms and world-class dining. Overlooking Union Square in downtown San Francisco, Westin’s historic flagship hotel is just minutes from Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and San Francisco’s financial district. Inside this warm and welcoming San Francisco Union Square hotel, marble columns, ornate balconies, and intricate woodwork transport guests back to the elegance of yesteryear. And just outside the front door, cable cars pull to a convenient stop. The hotel is steps from the Theater District, world-class shopping, and dozens of superb restaurants, galleries, and museums. San Francisco International Airport is approximately 15 miles away.

Fairmont Video Guide

Fairmont San Francisco
The Fairmont San Francisco is central to the Financial District, Union Square, and Fisherman’s Wharf. With an endless number of landmarks punctuating the horizon, including Alcatraz, Coit Tower, and the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s easy to navigate the city’s many interesting neighborhoods. San Francisco’s vibrant cultural heritage, combined with its incredible architecture and stunning views, make it one of the most popular cities to visit in the world.

JW Marriott Hotel Video Guide

JW Marriott Hotel
Marriott Hotel Description The JW Marriott Hotel San Francisco makes its debut in this outstanding location in the heart of downtown San Francisco, with a variety of upscale restaurants, shops and galleries to choose from. This grand 21 story San Francisco hotel features 329 deluxe guest rooms, 8 beautifully adorned suites, and is only minutes away from Moscone Convention Center, Nob Hill, Chinatown and other popular San Francisco sites. All guest rooms are non-smoking and include voicemail and data port, safe, Internet browser/ Web TV, wet bar, mini-bar, digital On Command Video Movies, and STSN high-speed internet access. Upon request, we have guest rooms that include a rollaway bed, pull-out sofa bed, and/or separate tub and shower. This architectural gem also offers an onsite 24-hour fitness center, Concierge Lounge and a concierge level.

RESTUARANT VIDEO

House of Prime Rib Video Guide

House of Prime Rib
We do one dish exceptionally well–prime rib. House of Prime Rib sprawls over five rooms with comfy banquets, spacious tables, and fireplaces. There are two fresh fish dishes on the menu, but we have been known for fine prime rib since 1949. Gift Certificates available by phone or in person.

Gary Danko Video Guide

Gary Danko
The recipient of the coveted James Beard cooking award, chef Gary Danko practices his genius at his eponymous, 65-seat Gary Danko restaurant. Luxurious appetizers, flavorful entrees, and decadent desserts are the true crowd pleasers. Try the Lobster Salad with Fennel, Citrus, Avocado and Mustard Tarragon Dressing or an entree of Seared Maine Scallops with Black Truffle, Leek and Potato Puree. Indulge in the special Flambeed Pineapple with Macadamia Nuts and Cocounut Sherbet, prepared table side and with gusto. An outstanding wine list featuring hundreds of California and French bottles is available.

Tu Lan Video Guide

Tu Lan
Tu Lan diner does not have any notable decor. Tables, chairs and a long counter fill the room, all of them packed with locals, ex-pat Vietnamese, upscale business types, and students who love the food here. Toothsome shrimp dumplings wrapped around stalks of crispy-sweet sugar cane, Pho soup that is rich and nourishing with bits of beef or pork swimming in long-simmered broth, and lemon beef over rice that is bracing and hearty are just a few of the delicious dishes served up here. The wait staff is quick, but much too busy for service that is more than efficient.

Burma Super Star Video Guide

Burma Super Star
Burma Super Star is one of the few restaurants in The City to specialize in Burmese cuisine. Critically acclaimed, this venue was voted “Best Burmese restaurant on the West Coast” by Asian magazine. Treat yourself to large portions of flavorful ethnic food at prices that will not hurt your wallet. Burmese cuisine is full of spicy flavors such as lemon grass, garlic and curry. There are more than 100 dishes on the menu including Mandarin recipes and a wide selection of meat-free dishes for vegetarians. Decide between noodles and rice, fresh vegetables, poultry, beef, pork, goat and seafood.

Thanh Long Video Guide

Thanh Long
Hordes of people travel out to the end of the Avenues to enjoy top-notch Vietnamese-fusion cuisine for reasonable prices, so make your reservations early. Thanh Long restaurant is run by the same family who owns Crustacean (L.A. and S.F.) and features the same delectable menu. Of course, no visit is complete without sampling the famous Roast Crab or the garlic-infused noodles. Bartender Graham, a Thanh Long institution, is a master of his art and the drinks show it.