Say it isn't so

I am just about ready to give up reading the news. It seems that it's all bad, economy-wise anyhow. The San Francisco Chronicle has announced it will either streamline or close due to the horrible economic times of late. On my last couple of visits to San Francisco the hotels and restaurants seemed awfully empty. I asked the restaurant manager at a large hotel how business was. The look on his face said volumes even though his answer was positive.

I wonder if some of the economic woes are a product of fear. People fear for the future and snap their pocketbooks shut. Our economy, for better or worse, hinges on people buying products.

I try to look for the silver lining in all this craziness. If you have a little money to spare you can find some serious bargains on hotels. A couple of our favorite hotels have inexpensive rooms available. The Harbor Court has a king room for two at $87 and for a dollar extra they throw in breakfast. The Palace Hotel has rooms for two at $104. They have an indoor pool and the most handsome lobby in the city . Break off a few dollars to keep the economy rolling and enjoy.

Harbor Court Hotel

The Palace Hotel

Prices quoted were done online for a room for Friday 2/27 to 3/1 2009 two people.

For a Laff

Anyone who has read my blog knows I love the Bay Area and its special jewel San Francisco. Nothing better than a day trip to the city to brighten my outlook. Last week we headed over to the Art Institute on Chestnut. This old fort-like building houses a number of galleries, an outrageous view of the bay, a quiet court yard, and cool little cafe. On previous visits we had gone during the week when the students were present. It was alive with youthful energy and talent. On this visit we only saw one lonely looking security guard. The cafe was closed but the great views and gallery were still available.

Gallery and courtyard

The view

We headed back down to Fisherman's Wharf and had lunch at the Marriott lobby lounge. The food is good, it never has been crowded and the bartender treats us like royalty.
After lunch, walked by the water and checked out the Musee Mechanique that houses antique arcade games and displays. It is home to Laffing Sal , who once graced Playland at the Beach,and a number of scary looking clowns.

Laffing Sal

Scary Guys!