02/15/08

A Major Problem--But the Hotel Response Was Swift

by SFTripper

The Fairmont was the last of three hotels we stayed at during a recent trip to Napa and San Francisco. Overall our impressions were good, although there were a few problems that shouldn't have happened.

First, the good. We were in room 1801, right off the elevator on the 18th floor with a wonderful view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Coit Tower. Being so close to the elevator we were somewhat concerned about noise, but our fears were unfounded. The room was spotlessly clean, although the duvet was torn--something housekeeping should easily have noticed and taken out of service for repair. The minibar was well stocked, as was the bathroom with toiletries, however there was only one robe where two should have hung. The bed was comfortable with Frette sheets, and there was a large flat screen LCD TV.

Our second day there we returned after a day of sightseeing to find the door to our room had been left ajar by housekeeping. Fortunately we had locked up all valuables in the large safe, but it was very unsettling to know that anyone who happened by could wave walked into our room and taken anything they wanted out of it. The front desk was called and the response was of true concern. A member of the hotels security staff was dispatched to read the records on the automatic door lock so they could determine who had left the door open. We felt that the hotel should have offered something as a token--sweets left in our room while we were at dinner, or perhaps an offer of a couple of cocktails at one of the lounges--we've been comped far more for far less at many other hotels without asking, and in our opinion things like that should be asked for, they should just happen.

The hotel did bend over backwards when I became incredibly ill on our finalday, offering to send a doctor and extending our checkout until late evening as we had a redeye home.

All and all it was a nice stay, and we would return.

• Pros: Frette Sheets, Gorgeous View, Great Location
• Cons: A few problems/errors that shouldn't happen at a higher end hotel

This historic hotel atop Nob Hill provides opulent accommodations for the ruling class.

by Contributor

The Scene
One of San Francisco's grand hotels, this 591-room Nob Hill old-timer boasts a massive lobby that features a dramatically ornate marble staircase, clusters of plump, comfortable chairs and sofas, and even a shopping arcade.

The Details
Rooms are large and well-equipped and the service is responsive and attentive. Views of the city from the 24th-floor tower rooms, from the Fairmont Crown Room at the tower's top and from the rooftop garden are spectacular. Amenities include concierge service and an exercise room which has weight machines, free weights, a sauna, a whirlpool and a professional instructor.