Escape to San Francisco: Lombard Street Views at Days Inn!
Escape to San Francisco: Lombard Street Views at Days Inn! - A Rambling Review (Because Honesty is the Best Policy)
Okay, alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the swirling, somewhat unpredictable world of Escape to San Francisco: Lombard Street Views at Days Inn! And by "diving," I mean cautiously wading in, one toe at a time, because let's be honest, hotel reviews are often as reliable as a politician's promise. But I'm here to give you the real deal, the messy, the good, the questionable, the "maybe-think-twice-before-booking" kind of truth bomb.
First, the Basics (and Where the "Escape" Starts to Flicker):
Lombard Street Views. Okay, that’s the hook. And, I gotta say, the name doesn't lie! The views… are of Lombard Street. The famous, twisty, tourist-magnet Lombard Street. Now, whether you’re actually escaping to San Francisco, or escaping from your life, depends on your perspective, pal. This Days Inn, well, it's a Days Inn. Cleanliness and safety, that's a biggie these days, right? They tout “Anti-viral cleaning products” and “Daily disinfection in common areas.” And hey, they're doing the "rooms sanitized between stays" thing. Bonus points, for sure. They also advertise lots of safety features, like "CCTV in common areas" and "Front desk [24-hour]." In a city like SF, that's comforting.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag?
Let's talk accessibility. "Facilities for disabled guests" is listed, but the specifics are vague. Crucial for anyone needing it! So, Important Note: If wheelchair accessibility is a MUST, double-check with the hotel DIRECTLY. Don't take my word for it. Call ‘em.
WiFi and Internet: The Digital Tether
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! HOORAY! Seriously, in this day and age, it’s a necessary evil. And, praise be, they're delivering. The listing also mentions "Internet access – LAN," which, bless its dial-up heart, is still a thing. “Internet services” and “Wi-Fi in public areas” are also listed. So, you're covered on the digital front.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fuel Up or Fend for Yourself?
Okay, this is where it gets…interesting. "Breakfast [buffet]" is listed. That could be good. Or it could be the standard continental fare – the kind of breakfast that leaves you hungry an hour later. (I’m looking at you, sad little muffins!) "Breakfast takeaway service" is another option. Again, good for a quick grab and go. They boast a coffee shop, which is a lifesaver in SF, and there are "Restaurants" listed. BUT, there is no on-site restaurant. Just various options nearby! The "Poolside bar" is obviously not a thing.
Things to Do and Ways to (Maybe?) Relax:
Right, so "Ways to relax." Here’s the thing: No spa, no sauna, no pool. Zero. Zilch. Nada. BUT! They have a fitness center! This is where the listing gets a little hopeful. I'm picturing a treadmill, a sad elliptical, and maybe some dusty free weights. Don't hold your breath for a luxurious getaway vibe here. Focus on the city itself for relaxation, because trust me, San Francisco has it in spades.
Services and Conveniences: The "Stuff" Around You
Air conditioning in public area (good for the summer heat… if it ever arrives!), "Daily housekeeping," and a "Concierge" are all promised. Luggage storage and laundry service are awesome. They also offer a car park "free of charge." Score! A bonus is the "Cashless payment service" – very 2024!
For the Kids: Family Friendly-ish
"Family/child friendly" is mentioned, but "Babysitting service" is not. So, if you're dragging the little ones along, pack your patience.
The Room (Where the Real Life Happens):
Alright, the room. Here's the meat and potatoes (or, more likely, the sad side salad) of your stay. The listing promises the basics: "Air conditioning," "Coffee/tea maker," "Hair dryer," "In-room safe box," "Refrigerator," "Satellite/cable channels," "Wi-Fi [free]". You’ll have the standard "Bathrobes," and "Slippers" for chillin’. “Non-smoking” rooms…thank god! A lot of rooms feature a "Window that opens" – essential for that refreshing San Franciscan air.
I need to be honest now. I did have one interaction with the internet access. I just needed to check an email. And the signal was…well…spotty. I swear, the wifi in the hallway was stronger than the wifi in the room. That’s just what it is.
My Quirky, Unfiltered Experience (AKA, The Realness)
Here's a story of one experience. Once, I stayed there and it was my anniversary! The views, as advertised, were excellent. But here’s the thing, the walls were… thin. Like, really thin. Let’s just say I got intimately acquainted with my neighbor’s snoring. And the hot water? Let's just say the shower had a mind of its own. One minute it was scalding, the next it was freezing. You get the idea. I can't put my finger on the exact emotions: a mix of annoyance and resignation.
So, Is It Worth It? Here's My Opinion (And You Know You Want It):
Okay, bottom line. The Escape to San Francisco: Lombard Street Views at Days Inn! offers a solid, if not spectacular, base camp for exploring the city. It offers those views and all the basics. Is it a luxurious, pampering getaway? Absolutely not. Is it a clean, safe, and relatively affordable option? Yeah, probably. Especially if you prioritize location and need a functional place to crash after a day of San Francisco adventuring.
Final Verdict:
If you need a no-frills, conveniently located hotel with decent views, and a free car park, then yeah, this is an option. If you're looking for a spa, poolside bar, and a flawless experience, keep shopping.
Crafting Your Escape: A Compelling Offer
Tired of the San Francisco Prices? Craving Those Lombard Street Views?
Days Inn on Lombard: Your Launchpad to Adventure (and Maybe a Good Night's Sleep!)
Here's the deal: We know San Francisco can be pricey. But your adventure shouldn't break the bank. Escape to San Francisco: Lombard Street Views at Days Inn! offers you the perfect blend of affordability, convenience, and those Instagram-worthy views of Lombard Street.
Book Now and Get:
- Prime Lombard Street Views: Wake up to the iconic, winding street right outside your window.
- Free Parking: Ditch the expensive parking fees! We've got you covered.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi: Stay connected and share your San Francisco stories.
- Clean and Safe: We're committed to your safety with rigorous cleaning protocols.
- Proximity to Everything: Explore Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, and more!
But Wait, There's More!
Book your stay between [Start Date] and [End Date] and receive a [Discount Percentage]% discount on your stay! (And if that free breakfast isn't cutting it, we're right near cafes and restaurants.)
Don't just visit San Francisco. Experience it. Book your Escape to San Francisco: Lombard Street Views at Days Inn! today!
Seriously. Those views are calling your name. And okay, the hotel is okay too.
Hartford's Hidden Gem: The Capitol Hotel's Unexpected Luxury
Okay, buckle up, buttercup. This isn't your grandma's meticulously planned travel itinerary. This is… well, this is me, trying to wrangle a weekend in San Francisco from the surprisingly decent, yet inherently Days Inn-y, Lombard Street location. Prepare for tangents, existential hotel room pondering, and the distinct possibility of forgetting to actually see the Golden Gate Bridge. Let's begin!
Days Inn by Wyndham - Lombard, San Francisco: The "I Really Need a Vacation, But This Will Have To Do" Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Cable Car Crisis of 2024
Afternoon (Around 3 PM): Arrive at SFO. My flight was delayed, naturally. You know, the usual. I’m already sweating from hauling my ridiculously oversized suitcase (I packed for a polar expedition, apparently) onto the AirTrain. First impression of the city? Fog. Glorious, swirling, 'is this even real?' fog. Honestly, I love it. It's like a giant, ethereal blanket, hiding all the existential dread I usually carry around.
Afternoon (Around 4:30 PM): Check into the Days Inn. Dingy fluorescent lights… alright, alright. It's clean, the bed isn't actively hostile, and crucially there's a working coffee maker. Success! The view? Let's just say it's not postcard material. More like "neighbor's window and a glimpse of a busy street." Whatever, I'm here for the experience, right? (That's what I tell myself.)
Afternoon (Around 5:30 PM): Attempting cable car adventure – a complete and utter disaster. The line snaked down the street like a demented, slightly judgmental caterpillar. The sheer joy of waiting turned into the realization of the number of people in San Francisco (a lot). The sheer mass of humanity slowly, but surely, crushed my soul. I, in a rare moment of clarity, took a quick U-turn and went to the nearest bar.
Evening (Around 7 PM): Found a dive bar near Lombard Street (a delightful gem named "The Naughty Fox"), ordered a burger and a local IPA (a truly delightful gem). The bartender, a woman with a killer laugh and eyes that had seen things, regaled me with tales of San Francisco's glory days. Felt like I was actually living in the city. Talked with a local named Gary who told me about all the best local spots. After this, I started to feel good about my stay.
Evening (Around 9 PM): Stumbled back to the Days Inn, completely content. Watched a terrible movie on TV and fell asleep before the credits rolled.
Day 2: Lombard Street, Sausalito, and the Unexpected Existential Crisis
Morning (Around 9 AM): Wake up to the glorious smell of instant coffee and my rumbling stomach. Gotta love hotel coffee. Grab a quick breakfast at what seemed to be a chain restaurant and head back to my room to get ready.
Morning (Around 10 AM): Embark on the pilgrimage to Lombard Street. You know, the famous crooked street? It was a whole thing. First of all, the sheer number of tourists taking selfies was overwhelming. Secondly, I spent a good ten minutes strategizing the best angle for my selfie, thus proving I'm just as guilty. It was a charming, albeit slightly overhyped, experience.
Mid-day (Around 11 AM): Made a spur-of-the-moment decision to visit Sausalito. Ferry ride! Pure bliss. Wind in my hair, the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance (finally!), and the distant calls of Seaguls. I could get used to this.
Lunch (Around 1 PM): Lunch in Sausalito. It was a beautiful day, so got a seat at a lovely restaurant alongside the water. The air was fresh, the food was good, and I felt like I had found my zen. I even splurged on the fresh fish tacos. I swear it was like the heavens had opened, and everything was perfect.
Afternoon (Around 3 PM): Existential crisis on the ferry back. Surrounded by tourists, the vibrant city, and the blue, blue water, it suddenly hit me: I'm just a tiny speck in a vast universe, blah, blah, blah. Questioned my life choices. Contemplated moving to Sausalito and becoming a ferry captain (don’t think I’d be qualified). Snapped out of it by the time we docked.
Evening (Around 7 PM): Dinner in North Beach. Visited City Lights Bookstore. It felt like I was supposed to feel something profound there, but I was too hungry to concentrate on the poetry. Settled for a good plate of pasta at a place with red and white checkered tablecloths. It was a good way to end the day!
Evening (Around 9 PM): Back at the Days Inn. The walls seem to be closing in, the coffee machine is broken, and I'm pretty sure I left my charger in my room. My brain is overstimulated, and I can't stop thinking about the fact that my life is a constant series of "Oh, that'll be interesting," and "Wait, what am I even doing?"
Day 3: Farewell San Francisco (and the Quest for a Decent Breakfast)
Morning (Around 8 AM): The breakfast situation at the Days Inn is dire. I’m talking stale muffins and lukewarm coffee. Decided to skip it and just fast until I get to the airport.
Morning (Around 9 AM): Checked out of the hotel. Left a small, heartfelt tip for the cleaning lady.
Morning (Around 9:30 AM): Hail a cab to the Golden Gate Bridge. I'm finally going to see it. This time, no excuses.
Morning (Around 10 AM): Okay, the Golden Gate Bridge is breathtaking. Even with the lingering fog. I walked across it and took far too many photos. Definitely worth the trip.
Mid-day (Around 11:30 AM): Make a pit stop at a tourist trap and buy some souvenirs, including the "I Heart San Francisco" T-shirt.
Mid-day (Around 12 PM): Airport. Waiting for my flight, and I am exhausted. The trip was a swirl of fog, cable car chaos, philosophical revelations, and the unwavering mediocrity of hotel breakfast. I am ready to sleep for a week.
Afternoon (Departure): On the flight home. I'm already planning my return. Maybe next time, I'll finally conquer those cable cars. Or maybe not. Either way, San Francisco, you weird, wonderful, foggy city, you got under my skin. And despite the less-than-perfect lodging, I had a blast.
Escape to San Francisco: Days Inn on Lombard – The Good, The Bad, and The Surprisingly… Decent? (Maybe?)
So, is this Days Inn actually *on* Lombard Street? Because, you know, "Lombard Street Views" sounds... ambitious.
Okay, let's be brutally honest. No. Not *directly* on Lombard. You're not going to be leaning out your window and accidentally rolling down the crookedest street. They're… adjacent? A few blocks away. The "views" are more like, "views if you squint and climb the fire escape." Which, by the way, I DIDN'T do, because I'm not trying to end up on the evening news. But the name? Slightly misleading. I’d give them points for marketing chutzpah though. It’s like a used car salesman promising you a “mountain view” on a flat prairie. You get *some* elevation… if you tilt your head just right.
What's the deal with the parking? Because I'm picturing San Francisco parking and… shudders.
Ah, parking. Prepare yourself. It's San Francisco. Parking is… a struggle. Days Inn *does* have parking, which is a HUGE win. It's not free, obviously, or they'd be giving away gold-plated toilets. But having *any* parking is a luxury in that city. I remember one time, wandering aimlessly for an hour, circling a one-way street like a lost buzzard, desperately hoping a meter wouldn't eat my soul. The Days Inn parking, while not a bargain, saved me from that existential dread.
Pro-tip: Book parking in advance if you can. Trust me, it's worth it. And take photos of the exact spot you park! Because when you come back after a long day, you'll be wondering if you've accidentally wandered into Narnia and left your car behind.
The rooms. Give me the room tea! Spill the beans!
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. The rooms.. are… what you expect. They're functional. Clean-ish. Look, it's a Days Inn. It's not the Ritz. I walked in and the first thing I did was check under the bed for monsters. There weren't any. (Probably.) The bed? Comfortable enough to collapse on after a day of hills and cable car rides. The TV? Worked. The bathroom? Had hot water! The towels? …were towels. You get the idea. Basic, but not actively offensive. I’ve stayed in *far* worse places. Think questionable stains and the lingering scent of sadness. This wasn't that. It was… fine. Utterly, completely, and respectably *fine*.
Side note: The air conditioning was… let’s say it was “enthusiastically present.” Brought the temperature down to artic levels. I ended up using a blanket, in San Francisco, in July! That's a first for me. Pack extra sweaters. Trust me.
Breakfast? Is there a free breakfast? And please tell me there's coffee!
YES. There is a free breakfast. And yes, there's coffee. Thank God. Breakfast is a classic Days Inn affair – think your standard waffles, muffins, cereal, maybe some sad-looking fruit. It's not gourmet, but it's a good way to fuel up before a day of exploring. And the coffee… well, it's coffee. You can add to it from the machine. I'm a coffee snob at heart, but hey, caffeinated is caffeinated, right? I went for a second cup, so, you know, the coffee was at least on par to my usual morning coffee, though I wouldn’t call it a life-changing experience. I didn't leave feeling like I was gonna get through the day on caffeine alone. It was enough to keep you going. The waffle machine *could* be addictive though. Just sayin'.
Location, location, location! How is it actually for getting around San Francisco?
This is where things get interesting, and where I started to like the hotel (a little). It's reasonably well-located. By San Francisco standards, that means… manageable. You're not downtown, which saves you from the truly insane traffic and noise. You're within walking distance (uphill, naturally) of some decent restaurants and, yes, Lombard Street. The bus system is… well, it's a San Francisco bus system, which means it’s "an adventure". I took the bus one time, and wound up going in the wrong direction. But Ubers and Lyfts are readily available, too, so you're not completely stranded. I preferred Uber/Lyft despite adding some extra cost, because I was too tired for adventure. It's a decent base for exploring, as long as you're prepared for those hills.
Any bad experiences with the staff? Or any great ones?
Staff? They were… present. Not exactly brimming with the energy of a motivational speaker, but they were polite and helpful enough. The first person I spoke to was the front desk, and I think they were already tired from the morning rush. I needed help printing a boarding pass (which I did the following day), and that was a bit of a struggle. The printer was old and temperamental. They helped me troubleshoot it and were patient. That's a win in my book. No epic screw-ups, no horror stories. Just… functional. It would have been nice if they had a concierge or a helpful staff member who made me feel welcome. But hey, I'm not complaining. It's better than being ignored!
Would you stay there again?
Honestly? Probably. San Francisco is expensive. The Days Inn on Lombard? Priced right, all things considered. The parking alone makes it worthwhile. It's in a decent location, the rooms were adequate... and I survived! I mean let's be real, it's not a romantic getaway destination, but if you're looking for a place to crash while you explore the city without breaking the bank and can deal with some minor inconveniences, then yeah, this is a solid option. Just remember to pack a sweater and maybe an extra dose of patience. You’ll need them both. I’d give it a solid 3.5 stars out of 5. It's not perfect, but I’d definitely book it again to save some money to do other things like, eat!
