Starwood Preferred Guest - Le Meridien Hotel San Francisco [Master Thread]

This was news to me this evening when I went to the Starwood site...announcing:

Le Meridien San Francisco
333 Battery Street San Francisco, California 94111 United States
Phone (415) 392-1234 Fax (415) 421-2433

Now accepting reservations for arrival on or after May 9, 2006.
Google Maps (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=333+Battery+Street,+san+francisco,+ca&om=1)

I believe this is currently the Park Hyatt.

For whatever reason, San Francisco has been a great market for hotel sign companies as rebranding here is incredibly abundant.

The Park Hyatt was sold by Strategic Hotel Investors to HEI Hospitality of Connecticut, and the latter decided to give the management contract to Starwood who put the Meridien name on it (interesting choice).

The Argent (formerly Le Meridien, then an ANA prior to becoming the Argent) was sold to Highgate Holdings of Irving, Texas, who has also contracted to Starwood for the Westin name.

It's unclear whether the Westin St. Francis on Union Square will remain a Westin, as it too got sold, to Strategic Hotel Investors (yes, the same one who owned the Park Hyatt soon to be Le Meridien) and they may contract out to someone else.

The Palace Hotel, which had been part of Starwood's Luxury Collection, is up for sale to the highest bidder.

Confused? Well, that's not it. The Pan Pacific Hotel, was acquired by Ashford Hospitality Trust which hired Marriott International to morph it into a J.W. Marriott. The Crowne Plaza on Union Square is also looking for a new brand as part of the settlement of a dispute of owner owner FelCor Lodging Trust with present operator InterContinental Hotels. And recently, the Holiday Inn Crown Plaza in the financial district/chinatown area became a Hilton, which has retooled the hotel for business travelers.

This literally changed hands from the Park Hyatt to Le Meridien overnight last night. Ironically, I'm neither a frequent guest of Starwood or Hyatts (I'm a Hilton Diamond). Thought I'd post a mini-review, though, from a non-SPG/HGP perspective.

I've stayed here before when it was a Park Hyatt and have always been impressed. The high-tier of Hyatts and Starwoods (Westins) I compare to the Hilton hotels but I think these outclass Hiltons on many levels. I assume Le Meridien is the upscale top-tier to be compared to Conrads, and it does not disappoint.

The check-in line was long as the front desk were being trained and were unfamiliar with the new system they were using. To be expected, of course. There was a gentleman walking around offering chocolates and champagne to those of us in line which I thought was a very nice touch. He was also soliciting (politely) signup for SPG. I let him know I was SPG but rarely use it and the conversation turned to my status at/loyalty to Hilton. (He also noticed my FlyerTalk luggage tags which surprised me he knew of). He offered me gold on the spot? I politely declined, letting him know I love both Hyatt and Westins but I had too much vested in Hilton. He assisted me with check-in and informed the front desk clerk to "upgrade" me. (I do not believe the hotel was fully booked).

I was given a end-of-the-hall balcony room on the 17th floor (rm 1720). Having never stayed in this type of room, and having a bad memory, I can't tell if the decor had been changed along with the rebranding, but it was very nice. Room was exceptionally clean, separate tub and glass-doored shower. Again, a nice balcony with a good view of Embarcadero, the Bay Bridge, and a partial view of the Ferry Building.

The concierge was swamped but a tremendous help, very knowledgeable and the couple before me were reserved on the spot at an exclusive restaurant. I needed something simpler, and they kindly obliged.

Bed was superb, and turndown service had already been completed (my check in time was 6pm). Nicely packaged box of chocolates on the pillow. About 30 minutes after settling in my room I get a complimentary call up to the room from the front desk just to check in on me. I asked for a wake-up, and was asked if I would like coffee in the morning. "I would," I say, and they agreed to bring up the coffee 15 minutes after wake-up. I have to say, that has never happened at any hotel I've stayed at, I was duly impressed.

They were right on time. It's the little things that really set hotels apart, that extra or above-and-beyond service, no matter how insignificant. I can't speak to status benefits, being probably the lowest tier of both SPG and HGP.

Just thought I'd share, it's a bit bumpy during the transition but they still take the time to cater to their guests. Definitely makes me want to switch loyalties ;)

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/060510/20060510005198.html?.v=1

Press Release Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts

San Francisco Selected for Starwood's First New Le Meridien Hotel in North America since Acquiring the Brand
Wednesday May 10, 9:00 am ET
Conversion a Key Move in Starwood's Aggressive Expansion of Le Meridien Properties in the U.S. and Worldwide

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 10, 2006--Starwood Hotels & Resorts (NYSE:HOT - News) and HEI Hospitality announced today that the Park Hyatt Hotel at 333 Battery Street in San Francisco has become a Le Meridien Hotel. According to the terms of the franchise agreement, the hotel will be managed by Merritt Hospitality, a division of hotel owner HEI Hospitality. Starwood acquired Le Meridien in November of 2005 and has announced plans for the aggressive expansion of the brand.

Synonymous worldwide with style, originality, and a passion for art, architecture, food, fashion and music and film, Le Meridien is viewed as an ideal match for San Francisco and its wealth of attractions, from world-class restaurants and museums, art galleries, music and film festivals, designer boutiques and neighborhood adventures to the coastal redwoods and Napa and Sonoma wine country.

"We are very pleased to announce San Francisco as the home of the first new Le Meridien since Starwood acquired the brand," said Eva Ziegler, senior vice president, Le Meridien Brand. "There is no more culturally rich, sophisticated or welcoming city in the U.S. than San Francisco, and the sister-city relationship between San Francisco and Paris only emphasizes the aptness of bringing this high-end European brand to one of the most European of American cities."

With 360 deluxe rooms and an ideal location at the crossroads of San Francisco's business, culture and shopping districts, the 24-story Le Meridien will add a high European service standard and a unique ambience to the city's rapidly rebounding hotel landscape. Adjacent to the Federal Reserve Building and minutes away from popular destinations such as Union Square, the Embarcadero, Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf, the hotel boasts more than 13,000 square feet of meeting space, 10 meeting rooms, and four boardrooms. It is also the home to the fine-dining Park Grill Restaurant and outdoor terrace, one of the city's renowned power breakfast and lunch destinations, as well as the elegantly appointed Bar 333.

"This is an exceptionally beautiful and well-designed property," said General Manager Sileshi Mengiste. "The first changes that patrons will notice will be a subtle shift in service, attitude and amenities that will reflect a more gracious, European approach to creating the guest experience. In time we will make subtle changes in decor, primarily in the bar and lounge areas, the restaurant, and eventually in the guest rooms." An approximately $10 million renovation of the property is expected to begin in late 2007.

The hotel also serves as a U.S. flagship for Starwood's commitment to Le Meridien brand and its distinctive heritage. Dating to its founding in Paris in 1972, Le Meridien has come to represent the "art" of hospitality throughout the world, known as much for its elegance, finesse and panache as for its superbly trained staff and commitment to providing guests with an "authentic" experience by genuinely reflecting the individuality of each of its locales.

Le Meridien has already been fully integrated into Starwood Hotels & Resorts' powerful reservations, loyalty, distribution and sales infrastructure, including the Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) program, which, with the addition of Le Meridien, allows members to earn and redeem points at more than 825 hotels in 95 countries, including new destinations such as Barcelona, Budapest, Seychelles, Mauritius, Stuttgart and Monte Carlo, as well as new choices in existing destinations such as Paris, Dubai, Nice, London, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Cancun and Vienna.

Plans call for aggressive expansion of Le Meridien-branded hotels within the next five years, concentrating in the U.S., Latin America, and Asia-Pacific, including destinations such as India, Thailand and China. Le Meridien is currently represented by over 120 properties in 52 countries. Almost 70 percent of the properties are in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, providing a strong international complement to Starwood's primarily North American holdings.

"Le Meridien is a perfect complement to the Starwood portfolio, with its international footprint and unique European guest culture," said Javier Benito, Starwood executive vice president and chief marketing officer. "Le Meridien represents a great growth opportunity alongside Starwood's W and Westin brands, extends the number of destination choices of travel to Starwood loyalists across the world, and further secures Starwood's position as one of the leading international consumer lifestyle hotel and leisure companies."



Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Stayed at the LM SF last night.

The bad: Took a while to check-in, seemed that the staff is still learning the computer system. Had to ask for my Platinum amenity, and the agent didnt even know what a Plat amenity was. Did not receive an upgrade, but didnt ask as I wanted to see what would be offered gratis and was only going to spend 6 hours in the hotel (sleep, bfast, checkout).

The good: Eventhe regular, unupgraded room is as good as any SPG property in SF, except maybe the St. Regis. Room was huge, with an entertainment console dividing the sleeping and working area. Bathroom was newer and nicely done. Bed very comfortable, Nakamichi sound system. Far superior room to the St. Francis or Palace and I'd rank at least equal to the W.

Breakfast was divine. Although the service was slow, my smoked salmon scramble was to die for.

My rate was far lower that any of the normal rates I get with my set #, plus I found the Embarcadero location much more convenient than the SoMa area by the Palace/St Regis/W. All in all, I'd happily stay here again, especially because I presume that the employees will get up to speed with the SPG program and upgrades will be in my future.

The good: Eventhe regular, unupgraded room is as good as any SPG property in SF, except maybe the St. Regis. Room was huge, with an entertainment console dividing the sleeping and working area. Bathroom was newer and nicely done. Bed very comfortable, Nakamichi sound system. Far superior room to the St. Francis or Palace and I'd rank at least equal to the W.

I had been staying at this property for 17 years (including the last 4 as Hyatt Diamond). I was extremely disappointed that it was leaving the Hyatt chain but since I love this hotel - I decided to get a status match from SPG to Platinum.

As a Park Hyatt the service was amazing (better than any other hotel I've stayed at in the US including (especially) the Park Chicago. Many of the employees have been there for years - including a couple of the doormen who have been there from the start. We requested both the SF Chronicle and NY Times for Sun 6-7 years ago and they had been showing up automatically every stay since without any reminders. Since getting Diamond status - they usually had assigned me to 2018 (a junior suite) and often had my name preprinted on the shoe shine slip. However my last stay there under the Hyatt flag I requested a xx19 room (a different junior suite) and loved it. Note that reports in the Hyatt forum had indicated that Diamonds are routinely upgraded to a junior suite unless they're sold out.

I was in SF this past weekend and stayed there on Fri & Sat nights. Since I knew that there would be some bumps due to the changeover I called the property on Wed and requested that the upgrade be to an xx19 if possible. When I arrived on Friday they had assigned 2306 to me - this room is probably one of the best non-suites and sounds like paullevi's room which is an upgraded room. Rooms of this type include xx01 and xx06 and some xx12. From these annecdotal reports it seems like their practice is going to be upgrading Platinums only to these large rooms but not to the junior suites :td: I politely but firmly asked if there were any xx19 available and that I had requested one. Was told that one was available but not cleaned but could be in about 45 min - which it was. However what they neglected to tell me was that 1419 was a business suite - walking into the suite was the bedroom (where normally the living room was) and where the bedroom usually is was an office setup. I'm not really upset about it because I'm sure they are still learning the property. However it doesn't seem like they are automatically upgrading Platinums to the junior suites (despite the terms of SPG Platinum) vs Hyatt doing so in the past even though suite upgrades are not the terms of HY Diamonds.

redacted

...our 500 amenity points have not posted with the room points as usual. What should we do?

It depends upon how patient you want to be. A lot of the Le Meridien properties do not have proprietary in-house data systems that "talk" to ours. In cases like this, there can be a delay in the amenity points posting because they have to request a manual posting.

IMHO, if they haven't posted a week after the stay posting hits your account, they probably aren't going to - for whatever reason. Then I would simply call Platinum Concierge and ask for the manual posting on your own. You should see them a few days later.

Or, you could skip the wait and call Platinum Concierge now. Your choice. ;)

Sincerely,


William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

We had two rooms here over the 4th of July weekend, had to figuratively beg for our Platinum upgrade and our 500 amenity points have not posted with the room points as usual. What should we do?

Its disturbing to hear this since Hyatt used to routinely upgrade Diamonds to suites even though it wasn't part of the T&Cs of the GP program unlike *w Platinums. The missing 500 amenity points - just e-mail SPG through the link on their site - that's what I did and it showed up a few days later.

Stayed for one night this weekend on a Travelzoo promotional rate. Overall, we were happy with the property. Booked a deluxe room, city view with sitting area and that's what we got. I'm a lowly gold and requested an upgrade since we were in town celebrating my wife's birthday. No such luck (spg.com was showing it as sold out so no big surprise), but we were put on a high floor with a partial bay view--what I'd call a "preferred room," I guess.

The exterior of the hotel is drab and uninviting, but the interior was pretty sleek and updated. Room was spacious with comfy bed (Heavenly looking bedspread). Bath was clean and fresh looking and bath products were great.

Our rate included a $30 food and bev credit, but there was no mention of it when we checked in. I later inquired and got clarification on it, but it did not show up on the bill and it took a little computer magic by the FD agent to make it happen. We used the credit on breakfast which was clearly priced for someone travelling on the company's dime (our $30 got us 1 oatmeal, 1 toast, 1 bowl of rice krispies with banana, no bevs). Had we not had the credit, we wouldn't have even considered eating there. Parking was equally over-the-top at nearly $50 with tax (I know, I know...that's probably about standard for SF these days...).

Location is pretty good for a "business district" hotel. The immediate surroundings were very dead as one would expect on a weekend, but we were a short walk to the Ferry Building, Chinatown, and North Beach (which was great for World Cup Finals viewing on Sunday!).

I'd probably stay there again if they were running a good promo, though I like to mix it up so I'll probably stay elsewhere just for the sake of variety.

Question for regular guests at this prop: Was the pic of the ferry building on the SPG site actually taken from the hotel as the site states? Maybe it was just our room location, but the ferry building seems a lot further away than in the pic...

Stayed there on July 1 for one night. Booked an internet only rate for a Classic room. Checked in at about 2pm and room was ready. Inquired about an upgrade at checkin and the clerk promptly offered me a Junior Suite (as a GOLD!) I asked him dimensions of room, etc and he said its slightly bigger than one of the deluxe rooms that I could also have. I needed two beds and the suites all only have one bed, so he put me into a Bay View room (with a spectacular view of the bay and Coit Tower) on the 24th floor. He said I could upgrade with points if I wanted to to a regular suite, but that Junior Suite was the max they give Golds for the comp upgrade (pretty nice IMHO, compared to most other Starwood hotels in the States). I asked him how many points for an upgrade to a regular suite and he said I would have to call SPG, because there system was not linked up. This is a little different than other SPG hotels I have been to (especially in Europe and Asia) where they can tell you right away or even have signs posted that will tell you the cost of various upgrades.

Stay was nice and the rooms are cool. Dont really care much for the sliding/non-lockable bathroom doors, but they are okay. Definitely will stay there agian!

I stay in SF once a month or so. This week was my first chance to try the Meridien.

Overall, I was very happy with the property, especially compared to my previous night which was spent at the Palace.

They must have their Starwood kinks worked out. I was immediately asked if I wanted points as my amenity, and I had been upgraded to a "Studio Suite". I was happy with this as the property was showing no availability of any room type.

I didn't spend much time out of my room, so that's the only thing I can comment on. Overall, it was extremely comfortable and clean. Most importantly (compared to my previous night), it was blissfully quiet. My room service braised spare ribs were GREAT and promptly delivered.

My new order of preference for SF hotels is as follows:

1 - St. Regis (the CLEAR winner in my book)
2 - Meridien
3 - W
4 - Westin St. Francis
5 - Palace, which unfortunatly usually has the lowest rates with my corporate code and hence is my most frequent choice

As an interesting side note, my colleague (non platinum) was booked at the Palace. They sold out. They walked him to a cab where he was taken to the St. Regis and given a corner suite. And the whole thing was totally comped...he didn't pay $.01 for his stay.

Stayed at this property last week of July, 2006. NOT impressed at all. As a Platinum member I usually get upgraded on the most of SPG properties but when I checked in I was given a choice of a lower floor King bed room or higher floor 2 twins. I was not impressed with the view, IMHO Westin's elevators have better view! Also, I told the check-in agent that I would take 500pt as Plat gift and she replied, "Of course Mr. NYCWahoo." Later, I found out thru SPG Plat desk that this property do not give out 500pts as a welcome gift for Plats. SPG Desk awarded me those pts anyway but overall not happy with Le Meridien SF

Stayed at this property last week of July, 2006. NOT impressed at all. As a Platinum member I usually get upgraded on the most of SPG properties but when I checked in I was given a choice of a lower floor King bed room or higher floor 2 twins. I was not impressed with the view, IMHO Westin's elevators have better view! Also, I told the check-in agent that I would take 500pt as Plat gift and she replied, "Of course Mr. NYCWahoo." Later, I found out thru SPG Plat desk that this property do not give out 500pts as a welcome gift for Plats. SPG Desk awarded me those pts anyway but overall not happy with Le Meridien SF

Ouch! I'm supposed to stay here over Labor Day...considering alternatives now!

Ouch! I'm supposed to stay here over Labor Day...considering alternatives now!

I'd suggest you call the concierge, William and talk to him before your arrival. He smoothed over all the details for my stay in July, and even had champagne and berries sent up to the room.

SF is one of my main Starwood travel cities, so I like to keep track of things there. I stayed at the Meridien for the first time last month and found it to be quite nice. Surprised that they plan to invest $10M into the place - it didn't feel dated or worn in the least.

"In San Francisco, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. is laying plans for the former Park Hyatt Hotel, which it recently bought and renamed Le Meridien San Francisco. The Battery Street high-rise will undergo a renovation of public spaces such as the bar and fine-dining restaurant and guest rooms, according to general manager Sileshi Mengiste.

Le Meridien will stay open during the redo, which will have a budget of at least $10 million, he said. Work will commence late next year and finish in early 2008. "

From this article:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2006/08/20/BUG11KJLTI1.DTL&type=business

Just wanted to report back that I did stay here over Labor Day and overall can say that I was pleased with my stay.

o Front desk, concierges, and doormen were all friendly, smiling, and helpful.
o Was put in a corner xx06 room which they described as a Junior Suite but just read previous comments by peteropny and so not sure if I would call this a suite or not. Overall, nice view of the bay and very comfortable room for the short time that I did spend in it.
o At checkin, was recognized as Platinum and asked if I wanted the 500 Pt. amenity, which I chose.
o Points and amenity posted by the time I returned home on Monday evening.

- no turn-down service; checked in at 1pm and came back at 8:45 and room had not been entered.

Location in financial district is quiet yet has easy access to various transportation options. I'd be happy to stay here again.

On a leisure visit to San Francisco, a couple of weeks ago, we chose this hotel for a very attractive rate found via travelzoo.com, bookable on the Starwood site: $165/night with a $30 food and beverage credit. We were upgraded to a high floor (20th) with water views, room was a standard room with two double beds, not large, but all in all, we were quite happy with concierge, front desk, restaurant ( for breakfast only, which BTW was >$40 for 2 people), room service and overall experience. Location, as mentioned, is good. I would also recommend checking out the Ferry Building about 4 blocks away on the waterfront. Excellent place to eat, buy gourmet goodies and/or get fantastic take-out.

My new order of preference for SF hotels is as follows:

1 - St. Regis (the CLEAR winner in my book)
2 - Meridien
3 - W
4 - Westin St. Francis
5 - Palace, which unfortunatly usually has the lowest rates with my corporate code and hence is my most frequent choice


As a native, I would agree, though some might find the Meridien location to be more convenient. If you want hip and don't mind small rooms and some attitude then go for the W as the rest are pretty stodgy.

You left the Fisherman's Wharf and airport props off the list (they would go at the bottom anyway ;) )

Just got back from a 2 night stay at this property, and couldn't have been more pleased with my stay. I found what I considered a great deal on the Starwood website. For $329 a nite, we got a "studio suite", parking, breakfast, AND a bottle of champagne with a nice dessert tray ;) . We were given a room on the 23rd floor that was truly more like a suite, with a separate bedroom and living room. There was a very large, new bathroom that looked out onto a little terrace with fabulous bay and city views. The bed was one of the most comfortable hotel beds I've slept in.
Room service was fine (they let us order our complementary breakfasts from the room service menu), though most items seemed bit overpriced, as were drinks in the downstairs bar.
The hotel itself is very impressive. Very subtle, not over the top, with a nice art deco theme.
The staff all seemed friendly and helpful (though I really didn't have any unusual requests for service).
I LOVED the location. Yes, it is away from Union Square, but give me the Ferry Building and the Embarcadero over Union Square any day! This is where I'll stay in San Francisco from now on! ^

Stayed here a couple of weekends ago. Booked 2 rooms that connected for me, DH and our 2 small children. Took FOREVER to get into our room though they assured us they were rushing it. I called the night before to give my SPG number and when we arrived it wasn't in the system. LOVED the location of this and enjoyed walking down to the Ferry Building for browsing, the Farmer's Market and lunch one day. We had a surprise delivery of milk and cookies one night which was nice. People seemed nice, didn't get a good nights sleep one night because some loud music playing somewhere (didn't know it was right next door until 2 hours of complaining). The night manager was a bit of a wuss and didn't want to do anything about it! We seriously had thumping walls it was so loud. Finally, after DH asked that he come to our room he noticed it was next door and knocked, asked them to quiet down which they did and that was that. Disappointing that it took literally over 2 hours to get resolved in the very wee hours of the morning .. oh well. Lovely rooms and the Amex deal for 199/nt was totally worth it.

I stayed there for the first time last night. There was an attractive rate that included either parking OR breakfast for 2. Check-in was quick and efficient, the room was "upgraded" to a nice room with a separate sitting area (one large room) and was comfortable. The bathroom was nice, and the "products" were decent. The rate said that the guest had to make a "choice" of parking or breakfast upon check-in, so I chose the parking. The location is good for business, for North Beach, and really isn't that far from most things, but on the weekend a lot of coffee/eating choices will be closed nearby. The Ferry Building is a short walk.

I liked the hotel. I thought their pricing on food and beverage was high, and didn't partake - there is so much "good eats" nearby. The fries at the bar are $15.

If price were equal, I'd stay there over the Palace and the St. Francis.

The parking charge showed up on the bill ($49) and he removed it on checkout after asking me to confirm that I didn't receive breakfast coupons. Car return took about 5 minutes.

The end.

I stayed there again last night. Everything was fine until I left, and I'd appreciate your suggestions as to whether this is worth a complaint.

When I went out to my car (delivered promptly), I pushed my keyfob (which I didn't give to them) to pop the trunk. It wouldn't work. I got in the car, and the seat and mirror were way off (fine, the driver is entitled to reach the gas pedal and see out the window), and I pushed my keyfob which should have identified me and reset the seat. Nope, didn't work. I pushed the "1" button in the car, and it reset. I drove off. When I turned the sound system on (i turned it off upon my arrival), it was at a much higher volume than I had left it, and on a radio station I hadn't left it on - I had been listening to a CD, and lowered the volume when I pulled up, prior to turning it off.

The car is only 9 months old, and never had an "issue" like this before, and has worked fine again since I turned it off, locked it, and later got back in. But something happened that made things screwy, as well as their radio games.

If this upset you to this extent, I think that I would have asked to see the valet manager when your key fob didn't work and your seat didn't work.

Regarding the issues with your key fob, etc., I think that this could have been purely inadvertent. I've actually wiped mine out accidentally by pushing/holding the wrong buttons. The valet might have been just trying to secure your car/set the alarm.

Regarding the radio, I understand your frustration. But again, playing devil's advocate if you had left the radio on at a high level, should the valet be subjected to that and then remember to turn it back to the same song at the same point at the same volume level? ;)

Greeted warmly by the front desk person,was able to check in at 10 am-very nice junior"studio"suite-very generously sized room-great bathroom.
Staff was warm and wonderful-sent up a card and cake for my birthday.
Wonderful Bed.
Loved the location-so much nicer than SoMa,Union Square or Market Street for folks who have done the touristy stuff already.

Although I have stayed at several Starwood properties in San Francisco, this is my 1st stay at the Le Meridian. (The former Park Hyatt in the financial district)

So far, I like it a lot. Great staff. They look after their guests. The business center is open 24/7; computer and internet access and use of the printer are free. The front desk will cheerfully make copies without charge.

Free coffee in the morning in the lobby. In the health club/gym, they offer free cleaning of your gym clothes. Just drop them off by 10:00 and they will be returned to your room by 4:00 P.M

Ask for a bay view room facing Battery Street. There is a Guest Quarters Hotel across the street offering Free Internet which works just fine in the rooms facing Battery. (It’s time for all hotels to offer free Internet)

This is a great hotel, and its too bad it went up to Category 5. :(

Lobby is a bit small, but gives the hotel a more intimate feel.

1 - St. Regis (the CLEAR winner in my book)
2 - Meridien
3 - W
4 - Westin St. Francis
5 - Palace

Would everyone concur? I can get the Meridien for $35 more per night under Gov. employee rate (I'm an IT director for school district). Thanks in advance for your opinions!

Spent two days at LM SF from March 23-25 for the wekend rate of $175 including parking.

All staff were very helpful, checkin was quick, concierge was very good for recomending restaurants. Room was very clean and nice, stayed up on the 21st floor. The only odd thing was that we had a room that had a red tint on the window, which made the room "red" during daylight hours.

My wife would have preferred to stay closer to Union Square for the shopping, but I like being close to the water and and the farmer's market.

Vader

3 days at this wonderful hotel last month. Wife and I were in SF for an industry conference.

I had booked this hotel on an award stay, even though St. Francis was closer to our conference location, based on the reviews I read here.

The place was outstanding. Walking distance to Chinatown for an excellent dinner one night. The following night, the hotel's complimentary car service took us to a great Italian place in North Beach. The car also delivered us to the Hilton and back each day of our business there.

Rooms are comfortable, staff is friendly and helpful. It was our first stay, and after checking in, the concierge (each one of them) greeted us by name every time we came back in.

All around, a first class experience. I can't say enough good things about it. Do yourself a favor next time you're in San Francisco and try this hotel.

Will be there next month -- what was the name of the italian restaurant?

Thanks

My favorite Italian in North Beach is:

Mona's Lisa's on Columbus Ave. and
Tommaso's on Kearny St (just off Columbus).

Just got back from a weekend stay there. I have nothing but positive to say about this property. First I booked almost last minute from the spg site for a very good rate of 169 (after i booked, the rate immediately jumped back to 359) for a classic room. I didn't have much expectation for upgrade (as a gold, and also as a busy weekend). Upon checkin , the front desk was very warm and welcome, they actually let me checkin early (around 12pm) and was very generous with the late checkout too. I got upgraded to xx06 room (junior suite), the room is a big corner room with sofa and nice view of the bay. The bedding was comfortable too. What made my stay expectional was the concierge team, esp William was very friendly and helpful. He recommended me one of the best dim sum restaurant I had in the entire nocal/socal. feels like I am in Hong kong! I will definitely return to stay at this property again, its a short walk to the bart, but its def. worth it!

I finally booked a reservation here for late September.
Waited to book this property to let it get settled in and oiled as an SPG property.
My memories here of the former Park Hyatt is that of a legend.
Almost always a great suite with balcony with breathtaking views of the bay.
And always a remarkable team treating you like missed family members perhaps better ^ :)

They knew what you wanted and knew your name before you could hit the front desk.
Yet these same folks knew magically when to give you your privacy.
This hotel was so polished so professional that I rarely stayed at other area Starwood properties except during SPG promotional times.
How strange to be in the Starwood family of hotels
The former Park Hyatt knew every newspaper I liked,my towel preference for bath sheets, even my muffin choice in the morning. Sometimes it was embarrassing and they ruined me by raising the bar quite frankly. At check in sometimes they would say which is your favorite suite so we can try to reserve it for you in the future?

Quite frankly I have lower expectations with Starwood/SPG as the Gold Passport Diamond breakfast vouchers will be gone and there will be no special memorable amenity other then points. Fair enough different programs. The thing I appreciated in the past was superb treatment on award or revenue. Each and every stay was important to them as was my satisfaction.
My faith in returning is knowing a number of these exceptional individuals still remain at the concierge desk.

I will assume I will be lucky to get the oversized guest room they are now calling suites. Look forward to sharing my trip report. They will have to be really good to pull off one the best track records of any property.The put Hyatt/Park Hyatt on the map in North America

Excited to see some of those individuals again I have had the honor to know for many years.
I salute them all as true class acts ^:-::-::-::-
Ok here I come Le Meridien.My first stay in that brand ever

I'm planning to take my wife for a romantic getaway in San Francisco in the beginning of November. Le Meridien is one of the hotels I've got on my list (after some extensive reading through the threads). However, one of things that still is not clear to me is the layout of a "Metropolitan Suite".

In reading through this thread, I see many references to junior suites, which people are describing as large rooms with an entertainment console that breaks up the bedroom and living room areas. This also seems consistent with the pictures that I've seen on Tripadvisor. Are these "Executive" or "Premier" suites? While they look nice, I'm really hoping for something with actual separate rooms.

The Meridien website describes the Metropolitan Suite as "An Exquisitely Designed Hospitality Suite With 868 Sq Ft, Sitting Area, And Dining Room. Perfect For Business Meeting." Has anyone stayed in this? Are they separate rooms, or just a larger version of what I'm seeing on Tripadvisor? Also, what does "perfect for business meeting" mean?

Any insight would be most appreciated. :cool:

Any insight would be most appreciated. :cool:This still would be considered a satisfactory Platinum upgrade from a standard guest room.
The former Park Hyatt would give these out when real suites were not available. It was considered a Park Executive room.These are the ones with the tv console cabinet with the fridge in the middle of the room.
I certainly hope they replaced the tired 15 inch dated televisions with poor operating remote contols

However I would add the hotel is obviously trying to define it as suite now rather then the very nice oversized room that it is. The bathrooms in these deluxe guest rooms are nicer then the real Jr suites with separate shower stalls. However they lack the nicer two room set up of the Jr suites which make it feel more like an upscale condo. Also the real Jr. suites have much better views. That said these are certainly highly satisfactory guest rooms that now are called suites. It probably helps the hotel justify the doubling of the price since it became a Le Meridien

[The Meridien website describes the Metropolitan Suite as "An Exquisitely Designed Hospitality Suite With 868 Sq Ft, Sitting Area, And Dining Room. Perfect For Business Meeting." Has anyone stayed in this? [/QUOTE]

We just spent last weekend here, our first stay since it switched over from Hyatt. I would say the Metropolitan Suite at over 800 Sq. ft. is most likely, at a minimum, a two-room setup. I believe the oft mentioned X01 and X06 "parlor" rooms (I think that's what the PH called them) are about 500 sq. ft.

I used to stay here when it was PH approximately 12-15 times per year, so it was nice to see the property. In fact, it was most likely due to this switch and the closure of the PH and HR in Los Angeles that caused me to switch primary program loyalty to *W.

A pre check in visit to the website indicated we were scheduled for a "Studio Suite" & at check in I saw it was a X01 room. However, I was recognized by the front desk as a past PH guest and was then offered one of the two-room suites on the opposite corners (X19 or X20, X18 and X19 on the 24th Floor). Since we rarely got these as Hyatt Diamond, I chose the whirlpool bath suite as we'd never stayed in one of these before.

If I were to choose again, I would pick the balcony suite as there is not a separate shower stall & tub (I forgot about that) and the low water pressure took forever to fill the tub. In fact, I believe the X01 and X06 rooms have larger bathrooms with separate shower and tub. But despite that, it was still a very nice stay, although we did miss those breakfast vouchers Hyatt used to give. Though it appears the outstanding lemon blueberry pancakes are no longer on the menu (at least not on the room service menu), staff said they will still prepare them if asked.

Most of the staff still remains, and the concierge staff are still excellent, though it seems many staff missed being associated with "the Park". And the furnishings still appear to be the same.

As mentioned before, one of the best things about the PH were the attentive staff and all the little things, such as pre-printed shoe shine cards. I think with the retention of so many of the staff, it will continue to remain my priority choice in the City & we'll see with several more stays I have scheduled here during the next few months.

A Stay at the Le Meridien San Francisco (The Former Park Hyatt)

It was with great anticipation I returned to one of my favorite hotels in North America.
Under the former Park Hyatt flag for many year’s the service delivered was some of the gold standard that other properties tried to aspire to in or out of the city of San Francisco.This was the single property that made me become a huge Hyatt fan some years ago........

How would Starwood do? Would they nurture the property or run it onto the ground with fast revolving door amateurs ?
It isn’t easy to take over from a legend and introduce a brand that in many ways is still in search of a strong brand identity…………
Less face it in Europe the Le Meriden brand may mean something but here in the US
I am afraid not much really comes to mind. However inheriting a fine property like this will add a certain amount of prestige to any brand IMO.

The hotel in the past was built without regard to the rampant cost cutting that goes on in most new hotel construction today. The original owners spent lavishly years ago to insure quality when the hotel was originally built.
The hotel hasn’t been renovated in over a decade and still looks excellent!
That my friends is great hotel design. The architect new what they were doing.It is more residential in feeling.
And we the guest can enjoy being on property each and every time.
The hotel for examples has windows that open and in some rooms sliding glass doors out to a balcony. I love that.


I worried needlessly that Starwood would start the silly nickel and dime stuff charging for the business center but thankfully that has not happened either another good sign.
The only evidence is the new charge for All 800 numbers.
Ok let’s start from the top upon arriving to the hotel:
I was shocked to see the beautiful windows and doors looking as if they were boarded up As if they had a fire or some construction going on.
Later found out if correctly informed that it is a tradition with Le Meridien.
These are very unattractive decals smothered all over the beautiful glass doors and windows. It is simply awful IMO.One can not see in or out with ease and it was confusing which door to use when entering .I have been a guest for over ten years so I certainly should know how to enter!
I also view it as a security risk in addition to cutting much of the nice street view out
More Starwood LM branding techniques? YIKES
Ok moving on enough said…….. Ok you ask how was the real experience ?

Check in and check were routine and in need of further coaching and perhaps different individuals to match the rest of the excellent in house team. The well dressed check in agent was acceptable but offered no welcome, smile or mention of a Platinum amenity choice or that I had been upgraded to an excellent suite.
Not fitting of the past front desk folks when a Hyatt.
I had been concerned before arrival I would not be recognized with regard to my Platinum status upgrade potential. Especially during a very busy convention time.

Once again I was in a suite ^
Even during a sold out few nights across the city where many SPG guests were walked to other area hotels.
I was soon happily settling in to a two room 18 series suite with Jacuzzi rather then my favorite terrace suite just across the hall in the 19 series. The Le Meridien could do no wrong from there on in and I was a happy camper :)
The Jacuzzi suite a fun welcome change. After all how much time does one spend on their balcony anyway?……..

So what other details/changes occurred during my stay? Bath sheets have been eliminated from guest rooms and suites even by request. These are the extra large luxurious towels that would be on guest profiles and put in suites before our arrivals. According to housekeeping Starwood eliminated them and they are no longer available.
Pen and paper next to the bed in the suites have also been eliminated.And when you use the existing pen and paper in the living room you are stripped to three tiny sheets on a pad just in case you were thinking of making off with a whole pad at departure.
So absurd and petty in a 300 dollar a night and up a night hotel but no big deal in the big world
Other missing memories newspapers. The former Park Hyatt would deliver and remember every newspaper on your profile and reconfirm your preferences at check in
Every morning now it is what ever they happen to slap down at your door.
Again no deal killer and typical of most Starwood hotels
what is convenient or economical for them. Its small handfuls of those details that separate the common hotel experience from one of great pleasure.

The other interesting yet bizarre change at the Le Meridian hotel is intruding sounds in the elevator
Upon first entering I heard leaking water above my head and thought at first a pipe had burst or may be leaking. It turns out the hotel spent an enormous amount (I hope that amount that was shared with me is incorrect) to put a sound system in the elevators to give it a W like edge. At times you may be hearing birds at other times tribal chants.
Call me old fashioned but the quiet and tranquility is what made this hotel great along with the fine product and service.
I may welcome cheesy dentist music in my next elevator ride after the Le Meridien elevator ride. Once or twice is cool but every time being subjected to that 12 times a day? :(:rolleyes::confused:
Starwood is trying to hard to make the hotel cool. Why can’t the Le Meridian just be classy? Which it is without trying.

I joked with some of their nice team members about the tribal chants in the morning elevator ride. I said I would pay them 50 bucks to shut them off. When they said it was out of their control I tried to at least pass a compliment saying how thankful I was that there was a Starwood hotel without a stinking lobby of incense fumes. It was explained that they had just run out of fragrance and to expect it on the next visit.
Thankfully they didn’t restock before I left. I did like the candles they placed in the lobby and from what I understand major room renovations are slated for next year.

Whatever is in store let’s hope its not in line with the leaking water soundtracks in the elevators or the dark Halloween Adams Family decals all over the doors and hotel windows. All that said I enjoyed seeing long time professional team members in house and being in the meticulous well maintained guest accommodations maintained by some of our nations best trained house keepers. Also left over and recognized from the Park Hyatt days.
Yes no fumes and a perfectly clean spotless room. Bravo .Yes sometimes it is a near perfect civilized world.

A small group of the fine inspired and exceptional concierge team remain
Those that have been added are remarkably proficient and friendly as well
The new concierge folks on board show considerable strength around a team of seasoned professionals. Some of the best in the nation.
So right off this property has so much going for it where it really counts.

Starwood did more then take over a classic property they inherited some terrific team members through out. I return to San Francisco in Feb for the opening of the brand new InterContinental down by the St Regis and the W
It will be interesting to see how they do in comparison
There rate is almost half of the Le Meridien at 189 per night.Le Meridien has the ability to be one of the top choices in SF for many years to come. It is already is a highly solid property just the way it is. Now if they could lose some of those dumb elevator soundtracks and door decals.
While they are at it cancel the perfume order for the lobby and buy everyone lunch for a job well done. The good news here?

The Le Meridien San Francisco offers good service typically and great accommodations. The majority of folks on board presently are doing a very fine job……..
Best of all it will probably keep getting better if early signs in their first transition year is any indication……

"The Le Meridien" San Francisco is a keeper. Don’t miss an opportunity to stay there.The Park Hyatt SF rests in peace and the Le Meriden looks like it may be writing the next chapter.
Thanks to anyone who made it through the end of my long winded novel^
Cheers

Any one had experience with the AMEX FHR benefits (Breakfast and Dinner for 2)?

Reviewing a fairly basic rate description I noticed what appears to be a complimentary towncar service:

Superior Non-smoking Room, 32 Inch Flat Screen Lcd Tv, Wireless Internet/fee, 24hr Access To Health Club, Comp Towncar Service

Has anyone had any experience with it?

Reviewing a fairly basic rate description I noticed what appears to be a complimentary towncar service:

Superior Non-smoking Room, 32 Inch Flat Screen Lcd Tv, Wireless Internet/fee, 24hr Access To Health Club, Comp Towncar Service

Has anyone had any experience with it?

Inquired about it over the weekend. Available Monday-Friday 7AM - 9AM and Wednesday - Saturday from 5PM - 11PM. All they request is you make a reservation at the concierge desk. The coverage for the service is 3 miles.

Inquired about it over the weekend. Available Monday-Friday 7AM - 9AM and Wednesday - Saturday from 5PM - 11PM. All they request is you make a reservation at the concierge desk. The coverage for the service is 3 miles.

That is very cool ^^. I plan to use it when I am there :).

...and you can live with a NON-CANCELLABLE reservation - internet weekend rates in April/May (and maybe later) are still going for $119 - $139/night (plus taxes and PARKING :eek: ) on www.lemeridian.com (https://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1957&fromSearch=11XX&linkbrand=&links=all)

Note: to see internet rates, take out the obnoxious SET/Corp. code that seems to appear randomly...

Is the Le Meridien SF now offering complementary Wi-Fi? I have a booking during June (FWIW, rate is $289.50 using SPG50 during a busy week) and the room description is:

1 King
Superior Non-smoking, 32 Inch Flat Screen Lcd Tv, Wi-fi Internet, 24hr Access To Health Club, Comp Towncar Service, A Refined 413 Sq Ft Of Sensible Style Offering Granite And Marble Bathrooms, Inspired Design, And Integrated Technology

If so, ^^^!

Is the Le Meridien SF now offering complementary Wi-Fi? I have a booking during June (FWIW, rate is $289.50 using SPG50 during a busy week) and the room description is:

1 King
Superior Non-smoking, 32 Inch Flat Screen Lcd Tv, Wi-fi Internet, 24hr Access To Health Club, Comp Towncar Service, A Refined 413 Sq Ft Of Sensible Style Offering Granite And Marble Bathrooms, Inspired Design, And Integrated Technology

If so, ^^^!


I believe its Wi-Fi (for a fee). Does anyone have the e mail address for the concierge team William? or even the general email address for the concierge will be appreciated.

I believe its Wi-Fi (for a fee). Does anyone have the e mail address for the concierge team William? or even the general email address for the concierge will be appreciated.The address, as well as more details on what the property charges for, are at www.starwoodhotels.com

...Does anyone have the e mail address for the concierge team William? or even the general email address for the concierge will be appreciated.

Yes, the Concierge email address for this hotel is conciergelemeridiensf.com.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Just got back from a one night stay

The plusses
- got a corner suite (Room 1819) with a phenomenal view, and a great layout (broken into 3 areas of living room, bathroom and bedroom)
- extremely comfortable bed
- the furniture was stylish and well thought out
- the Internet, while not free, was the fastest that I've had at a hotel in a long time
- good and friendly service
- good bath products

The minuses
- no newspaper and no coffee maker (is it asking too much?)
- the shower was a tub with a shower curtain - not my favorite
- the sea bass that I had in the lounge was absolutely swimming in butter. So much for the health benefits of eating fish!

I would probably stay here again over my usual haunts of the St. Francis, the W, and the Sheraton Fisherman's Wharf (which was only $10 less for the night I booked)

When I stayed last year, my room still had the Hyatt Grand beds.

They are extremely comfortable. Listening Starwood?

great! if anyone has questions about this hotel, i think i know this hotel as well as my own house. i've been staying here at least twice a month for the past 8 months and will continue to stay here for another 1.5 years. it's really my second home...

Snagged a room for $119 for a one night stay this weekend. My second stay at this property and I really like it. Stylish decor, comfortable rooms, and very friendly staff.

We don't usually travel with our dog, but felt adventurous this weekend so we took her to the city. The LM is insanely pet friendly as there was no fee, no deposit, and not even a waiver to sign. They simply gave us a special door hanger to leave on the knob in the event that we left the dog in the room unattended (which we would never dream of). They even told us that if we wanted to leave the dog in the room, just leave a cell number with the front desk in case the dog acts up and they would just bring her down and keep her behind the front desk. Like I said, a bit insane with the pet friendliness.

No gold recognition, but I wasn't expecting any because of the dog. I don't know if we were put in a "dog" room or not. We were on the 16th floor overlooking the Federal Reserve with a slight view of the bay bridge through a couple of buildings.

Parking is over $50/night for valet only. We parked at Embarcadero 1 for $30. It's right across the street. Entrance is on Battery.

There were a stack of Sunday Chronicles by the elevator on our floor.

Lack of coffee maker was a bit of a bummer. There is a Starbucks across the street, though.

While the immediate area is a bit business oriented, its proximity to the waterfront, Chinatown, and North Beach make for a good time as it's a nice alternative to Union Square. We'll be over there at the Palace in a few weeks (sans Rover) so I'll report on that then.

great! if anyone has questions about this hotel, i think i know this hotel as well as my own house. i've been staying here at least twice a month for the past 8 months and will continue to stay here for another 1.5 years. it's really my second home...

Hi rock72 - I'm staying at the Le Meridien next week for a couple nights and was wondering what you thought the best rooms were? Do you have any idea if they are good about upgrades? I am a SPG Gold if that helps.

Also, I heard they have a hotel car. Any experience using it? Thanks.

I did see them roll out a Mercedes S-class with a LM logo on the side while there last weekend, so I assume that was the hotel car you're referring to. We didn't use it or inquire about it so I don't have any details.

Are there any other nearby parking options for this hotel? The 20/day rate across from the Westin Market St is a steal, but I was hoping for a similar sub-25/n rate within an easy walk of the LM for a Friday night stay.

Are there any other nearby parking options for this hotel? The 20/day rate across from the Westin Market St is a steal, but I was hoping for a similar sub-25/n rate within an easy walk of the LM for a Friday night stay.

Post #52 in this thread gave a good parking tip

Post #52 in this thread gave a good parking tip

Embacadero is still a little pricey. I was hoping for something closer to 20.

Embacadero is still a little pricey. I was hoping for something closer to 20.

Here's the link to the last page of the SF Parking Discussion on Biddingfortravel.com (http://biddingfortravel.yuku.com/topic/70928/t/San-Francisco-parking-rates.html?page=5) (the page took a good 45 seconds to load)

There's a mention in a post from March of a lot on Beale & Howard for $5/night, $17/day. YMMV - A bit of a hike, though. Think I'd stick with Sam's suggestion, if locals can't help.

For those staying on weekends, street parking is free. I forget what time you need to move your car by, but the signs say.

Also ...hotel is offering $125 again for weekend stays through March 1. Book by Nov. 24. Details and terms are on the hotel's featured offers page.

Embacadero is still a little pricey. I was hoping for something closer to 20.

There is a municiple lot.Portsmouth square-not to far away.
Last time I checked it was $26.
http://www.sfpsg.com/dailyrates.php
Saturday(after 6?)and all day sunday should be free on the street-if you can find it.

After driving around with a local friend looking for parking, we gave up (all the nearby meters kick in at 7am on Saturday morning) and went to the Embacadero garage and paid the 30. The hotel is wonderful - I want to take the suite bathroom home with me :)

The hotel has self parking? I don't like valet people go thru my stuff or change my radio/seat setting.

Is the public garage parking right/right next to the hotel and convenient?
Are they safe area garage?

Thanks.

great! if anyone has questions about this hotel, i think i know this hotel as well as my own house. i've been staying here at least twice a month for the past 8 months and will continue to stay here for another 1.5 years. it's really my second home...

We have made reservations based on recommendations on this board for January at this hotel, and it will be our first stay at this property. As a Platinum, is there a particular room that you would recommend we ask for?

As noted in the thread, no self parking, and value is a whopping $49/night! Self parking can be had in the Embarcadero garage (30/night), other nearby garages (25-30/night), or on the street after 6pm on Saturdays (most nearby meters charge for parking on Saturday).

Take it from someone who spent too much time looking for other options - there aren't any, unless you want to park at 3rd/Market for 20/night and hike all the way back to the hotel.

As noted in the thread, no self parking, and value is a whopping $49/night!

And don't forget that they add tax to that, pushing it well over $50.

And don't forget that they add tax to that, pushing it well over $50.

and no SPG points on that $50 either. :td:

And don't forget that they add tax to that, pushing it well over $50.That amount is pure robbery.

You can also use the Portsmouth Square garage (http://www.sfpsg.com/dailyrates.php), 733 Kearny St (3 block west across from the Hilton): overnight is $26 all in.

We have made reservations based on recommendations on this board for January at this hotel, and it will be our first stay at this property. As a Platinum, is there a particular room that you would recommend we ask for?

I am Gold so unsure what Plat might get, but I think it will probably be the suite rooms like xx18 and xx19. There are suite room details on the recent thread in Hotel Deals that also talks about the latest Travelzoo deal at LM SFO http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=887580. I had room 2118 which is an SPG floor suite, sep bed room, nice bathroom with jacuzzi tub (it had issues re dirty muck but hopefully that was a one off), nice views. The room next door is xx19 and it is also lovely, but has the balcony with better views and no jacuzzi, and a slightly larger living area, so I guess it depends on what you prefer.

Maybe other Plats can chime in on what room you might expect. Enjoy your stay, I loved this hotel ^ and didnt want to leave when I was there for 3 nights in OCT 08 :p.

I loved this hotel ^ and didnt want to leave when I was there for 3 nights in OCT 08
What finally made you decide to leave?? ;) :D

Dave

What finally made you decide to leave?? ;) :D

Dave

Well actually we had nice C class seats to JFK, so that was very persuasive :D ;)!!! Thanks to my nice 1K friend who looked after me :p.

I hope that one day I get to go back to LM SFO for a longer stay, it really is a wonderful property and IMHO, well located.

I am Gold so unsure what Plat might get, but I think it will probably be the suite rooms like xx18 and xx19. There are suite room details on the recent thread in Hotel Deals that also talks about the latest Travelzoo deal at LM SFO http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=887580. I had room 2118 which is an SPG floor suite, sep bed room, nice bathroom with jacuzzi tub (it had issues re dirty muck but hopefully that was a one off), nice views. The room next door is xx19 and it is also lovely, but has the balcony with better views and no jacuzzi, and a slightly larger living area, so I guess it depends on what you prefer.

Maybe other Plats can chime in on what room you might expect. Enjoy your stay, I loved this hotel ^ and didnt want to leave when I was there for 3 nights in OCT 08 :p.

As the latest occupant of Room 2118, I am happy to report that no muck came out of the jacuzzi jets. I turned them on with trepidation and was pleased. It does require a LOT of water to start though. It is definitely a wonderful suite with a great view of the Bay Bridge and Ferry Building. My favorite view, however, is actually from the shower! It's better than the living room. I just love looking at the Bay. The concierge told me that they have been shorted on their newspapers lately and so haven't been putting them at the door. They do have stacks of Chronicles and USA Today by the elevator. The concierge also has NY Times and WSJ. I second downunder girl with not wanting to leave. I felt quite at home there and will happily return.
Judi

Hi rock72 - I'm staying at the Le Meridien next week for a couple nights and was wondering what you thought the best rooms were? Do you have any idea if they are good about upgrades? I am a SPG Gold if that helps.

Also, I heard they have a hotel car. Any experience using it? Thanks.

The corner rooms are all very good.

There is a hotel Mercedes S class. I was given a complimentary ride in it once for a meeting. I didn't ask...I just stood outside waiting for a cab and an employee walked over and asked if I needed a ride anywhere.

In terms of upgrades, there will sometimes give you one of the corner suites if you're lucky. It is a pretty busy hotel though so you do have to get lucky most of the time. But the standard rooms are pretty comfortable and large.

I stayed in room 1818 on Friday night. I was very pleased with my suite. The bed was very comfortable. The living room consisted of a two lounge chairs and an ottoman. The views were nice but I looked enviously on the people on the 17th floor who enjoyed room service breakfast on their balcony; the weather was nice on Saturday morning in SF. I especially like the fact that the minibar does not have an automatic sensor that charges guests for items that are simply moved but not consumed; I took some of the contents out and placed some leftovers in there from our dinner at Houston's.

I was quite impressed with the service of this hotel. The staff were very friendly and helpful. I took advantage of the car service from Houston's near Fisherman's Wharf. The driver was very friendly and it's a always nice to sit in a plush S-Class.

This hotel has a very nice fitness center. It was a very clean facility, up-to-date machines, plenty of clean towels and a functioning water cooler.

I think the location of this hotel is great. You're only a few blocks from BART, California St. cable car, Muni F line street cars, and Ferry Building. Starbucks is across the street and Safeway is closeby for some late night booze runs. It was an easy walk to the Farmer's Market on Saturday morning.

I'll definitely be back to this hotel. Next time, I'll request a room with a balcony.

We stayed at Le Meridien last Friday and Saturday night in a studio suite. I don't want to take away from the enjoyment so many seem to find in this hotel; in fact, we enjoyed it too. Our room was attractive and fairly comfortable, though the sofa with the two red pillows that looks so sharp is about as comfortable as a wooden bench. The staff we encountered were pleasant and helpful.

In short, there were no real negatives; just a bit of a lack of two "positives" that I personally tend to enjoy in hotels. (I've stayed in many of San Francisco's 4- and 5-star hotels over the years.)

The two "shortcomings," if I may call them that, relate to (1) location, and (2) a feeling on approaching and entering the hotel that it is really somewhere special.

(1) Location. It's not bad, but it ain't great. We were in town to see the Christmas lights, and the store windows and displays in places like Nieman-Marcus, Gumps, Bloomingdales, Macys, etc. Those are centered around Union Square, which is nearly a mile's walk from Le M. The area around Le M. is safe but rather barren, at least on weekends. There are shops in Embarcadero Center, but they don't begin to compare to those named above. The area around Battery and Clay streets is a bit of a dead zone.

Second, the hotel's public areas, while pleasant, didn't seem to me to rise to the level of several other San Francisco properties. Le M. doesn't have the grand atrium of the Hyatt Regency (the largest in the world, according to Guinness, and very attractive this holiday season with its thousands and thousands of tiny lights); nor the famed Garden Court of the venerable Westin Palace, nor the location, facade and lobby of the Fairmont, ditto for the Ritz Carlton, or the central location of numerous other 4- and 5-star hotels (e.g., the Marriott, the Parc 55, the Four Seasons, the Westin Market, the Grand Hyatt, the Mark Hopkins, and a number of others that are closer to the center of the action (Union Square)).

And it didn't have the high-energy buzz of the new InterContinental (whose rooms, incidentally, I liked at least as well if not better than those of L.M.).

Again, our room was well above average, and we found no real negatives, just a bit of a lack of two things: location, and a special "something" that raises a hotel above its peers.

I'm writing this with a sense of mild disappointment, since I was counting on L.M. to stand out in a sea of rather good properties. Just my view; and perhaps others will tell me what I missed.

I have mentioned the location issue before-but I like it as it is soooooo much calmer/quieter than a Union Square/Market st. location.

For those wanting to do Union Square-not the best location.For those of us who have done US(and were lucky enough to remember when US was truely special,with one of a kind shops,and not the outdoors mall it is today)then choose another property.

As to the lobby-they have a real modern art instalation in the lobby.I admit it is small-but I like that as well.

Can anyone suggest what I should tip the driver for the comp car?

Can anyone suggest what I should tip the driver for the comp car?
I normally tip about $5. I figure I'd pay more than that for a cab even though the towncars won't often take you very far from the hotel IME.

I didn't get a jacuzzi suite this past week but I did get 1019 which is a corner suite. The office area is very large with a nice big desk, fax machine, and view. The balcony was small (only fits 2 chairs and a small table) but pleasant.

The bathroom is very large.

I do like the layout but there is no sitting area in this room (other than in the office - but it's just chair, no couch).

Rock.

Was upgraded to the 1918 room with the Jacuzzi Tub.

Definitely too big for one person, but love the bay bridge view at night. The receptionist Shane is very nice and sweet.

Just got back from a 2 night stay Le Meridien SF. I booked for $119 a night and asked if there was an upgrade available. I am only a SPG Gold and they gave me room 1718. I originally asked for room 1918, because of all the good things I heard about it here and I wanted the jacuzzi, but 1718 had both a jazcuzzi and a huge terrace. It truly was a great surprise and had a great view of the Bay Bridge.

I stayed here on the evening of January 22. I had paid the $119 rate, and I was upgraded to the "Georgetown Suite," room 1904. The room was big with separate living and sleeping areas and windows all around. Didn't get a jacuzzi room, but I wouldn't have used it anyway. While I was relaxing after dinner, someone from in-room dining delivered two bottles of water in recognition of my platinum status.

This was my second stay at the LM, and I really like the relaxed atmosphere as well as the extremely helpful and friendly staff.

Just checked out of the San Francisco LM, and was very satisfied by the room and the hotel. We were upgraded to a suite, 1419, a corner room with a balcony. The layout of the room was a little unusual, in that one enters through the bedroom, and just beyond the bedroom to the right is bathroom. A study (a relatively large room with a desk and a couch) is just beyond the bedroom, while the balcony opens off the bedroom. The 14th floor of the hotel is shaped like a Xmas tree with rooms 1 and 2 at the base, and then as one goes to the higher rooms, the rooms get shorter. Rooms 19 and 20 are odd shaped rooms at the tip of the Xmas shaped floors. The hall resembles the trunk of the tree, except where the 4 elevators are, causing these rooms to be smaller than their neighbors, and the hall to be on both sides of the elevators.

There are a number of unusual features in this hotel. One of the elevators has sounds of birds chirping, whereas another had sounds of falling water. Upon getting ready for bed, I went to the closet to obtain a plastic bag to store my dirty clothes for travel home, but this hotel has only cotton bags that have a note attached. The note indicated that the cotton bags replacing the usual plastic bags are part of the hotel's Green strategy and should for clothes going to the cleaners or home--they can be purchased for $25. Needless to say, I chose not to use their cotton bags.

A superb feature of the room was the instanteous response of the heating/airconditioning system. By simply dialing the temperature up or down, the system changed the temperature of the room within a few minutes. As I like it cold, I turned the temperature down prior to going to bed, and found that within two minutes the temperature was lowered to a temperature I like for sleeping.

Some have commented about the bargin rates they were able to get. We did not score as well as some of the OPs, but we booked a rate for $168 plus tax for my wife and I during midweek. Because there was no SPG Lounge, we purchased a fine breakfast in the dining room on the third floor.

This was our first time at this hotel and we were pleased. No question, we would return the next time we stay in San Francisco. Now off to the new Westin in Napa valley.

If you don't like the birds, etc., try getting on the elevator with a total stranger when the soundtrack plays the angry elephant and monkeys. We both ducked and just laughed at the whole situation.

If you don't like the birds, etc., try getting on the elevator with a total stranger when the soundtrack plays the angry elephant and monkeys. We both ducked and just laughed at the whole situation.

Rats-never did hear the elephants :eek:

What a great staff this hotel has-so friendly and knowladgable.Nice to deal with a concierge staff who realllllly tries(and succeeds whenever possible)to assist guests-many of them are Clef d'ors members ^

There were three of us staying there this past weekend.One friend got a beautiful studio suite with and incredible view(2406)while we received a luxury one bedroom suite-with an outstaning view and a great balcony-room 1819.
I love the location of this hotel.So much quieter than Union Square or Market street.

Rats-never did hear the elephants :eek:

What a great staff this hotel has-so friendly and knowladgable.Nice to deal with a concierge staff who realllllly tries(and succeeds whenever possible)to assist guests-many of them are Clef d'ors members ^

There were three of us staying there this past weekend.One friend got a beautiful studio suite with and incredible view(2406)while we received a luxury one bedroom suite-with an outstaning view and a great balcony-room 1819.
I love the location of this hotel.So much quieter than Union Square or Market street.
Sorry you didn't get to hear the elephant stampede :)
The reason why the team is so strong is that a number were trained under the former Park Hyatt brand in its former hay day. A handful of those exceptional individuals came along when Starwood SPG took over and brought that service culture to a newer Starwood brand^ I never feel like I am in SPG property oddly for that reason when I stay there.

Starwood was very lucky to inherit some of the fine talent that remained on board with that transistion.The level of experience and the personality skills that are demonstrated at this property is something missing at many of Starwoods best brands especially in North America.
When I think of any St Regis or Luxury Collection experience not a single property comes to mind could touch the former team at this property.That is not to say I haven't had many good experiences in SPG properties just not any that come up to the caliber of my many positive experiences over the years at this property under the former Park Hyatt brand.
I’m grateful that the property has carried on as well as it has since SPG kicked in.

The only tangible loss was free breakfast for elites.
The most important thing that remained is respectable service and elite upgrade recognition

For those who never visited the property when it was a Park Hyatt it was a better hotel previously.
Most SPG members will be wowed simply because they are used to the lower standards of service that many other hotels provide. In this economy I will be happy to get a room key in a timely manner and have more then one check in agent in at busier times to expedite.....
All things considered with SPG expectations they are doing a highly satisfactory job at the LM and glad to have them as another excellent choice/option when in the Bay Area

I was there this past weekend also.

Having stayed at this property as a Park Hyatt probably 70+ times over 15+ years, I'm a bit disappointed.

Many of the staff is great (inherited from the Hyatt days). The main concierge on the weekends is especially great. Doorman and some bellmen are also long term employees.

Aside from no breakfast for elites, my biggest problem with the property under the *w umbrella is the upgrade games. My first stay (shortly after the changeover - as a *W Plat they tried to give me an xx01 as a Plat upgrade - not a true suite but a studio suite - or Deluxe under PH). Second stay was booked as "luxury suite", asked for a switch from xx18 to xx19 which was accomodated. Third stay this last weekend (as a gold) was given what was the smallest room on the floor during a weekend that was quite deserted. I'm debating the fourth stay that's booked right now (studio suite) whether I really want to stay here or go to a Hyatt.

We probably had something to complain about even in the good old Park Hyatt days too :D
If I remember correctly it was when they cut back on the boxes of fresh chocolates and bottles of wine in the room to a measly fruit bowl.:p
And the removal of complimentary sparking and still bottled waters replenshied twice daily
Of course now that is all gone with the LM. There are always the SPG amenity points now or popcorn to look forward too;) No Le Meridien base ball hats I am afraid or should I say thankfully!

All kidding aside I have found that not only is it nice to have some of the former PH alumni around but a number of the new Starwood folks that came to the property are impressive too.
If I were in your shoes I would simply open up the lines of communication with the front office manager and share my expectations and preferences. If that fails to improve things fair enough.
It is a buyers market again just like after 9-11.Excercise your options.

I like the Grand Hyatt quite a bit though the upgrades are just fair enough no wow factor.The club lounge very nice which seals the deal.Very hospitable
And The new InterContinental another strong contender in the city

I did hear early on about SPG Platinum complaints when the property first switched hands to The LM however it seems as of late most seem reasonably satisfied I hear from.

Though I had no special requests for my stay I received one of the same Jr suites with balcony I routinely had as a former Park Hyatt customer .
The only negative I remember was the sad looking Walmart style newly replaced couches.The old couches were clearly more upscale and comfortable.Wow what a waste of precious remodeling $$$$$!!:eek:.
I left satisfied none the less.And if Starwood had built the property you can be sure rooms and suites would have no balconies like the W.
The LM was built by some exceptional builders.

I was there this past weekend also.

Sorry I missed you Peter. I was there too.

I'm really surprised you're not having better luck with the upgrades as a platinum. I tend to get 22-2419 every single stay. The manager is very nice. You might drop him a note. My one complaint here has been with the water pressure - something they're supposed to be fixing.

Regarding the water pressure...it was pretty good if not great on floor 19 last evening.

On another note, if there happened to be a flyertalker in 1120 last evening (Tuesday)...you are a rotten neighbor. Blasting classical music at 2:45 am (both before and after staff requested that you turn it down) likely means that the chances of us being friends is out.

This was my first time in a 19 room as I usually end up in the studio suites (which is where I was originally assigned pre-checkin this time as well.) After my second complaint, I was moved. It was sort of moot as I had to be up in a little over 2 hrs, but was a reasonable solution.

What do the 20 rooms look like? It seems like people prefer the 19's over the 18's. Are the 04 rooms the non-standard suites? Just asking as I am theoretically back there next week.

We probably had something to complain about even in the good old Park Hyatt days too :D
If I remember correctly it was when they cut back on the boxes of fresh chocolates and bottles of wine in the room to a measly fruit bowl.:p

The only negative I remember was the sad looking Walmart style newly replaced couches.The old couches were clearly more upscale and comfortable.Wow what a waste of precious remodeling $$$$$!!:eek:.


Yes, the Diamond amenity was a bit lacking when it was the PH.

What were they thinking with the "off white" couches and chairs - ugly, uncomfortable, and really shows stains & dirt. While they left the old coffee / end tables which were in desperate need of replacement.

Sorry I missed you Peter. I was there too.

I'm really surprised you're not having better luck with the upgrades as a platinum. I tend to get 22-2419 every single stay. The manager is very nice. You might drop him a note. My one complaint here has been with the water pressure - something they're supposed to be fixing.

Sorry I missed you also :) Well I'm no longer Platinum - just Gold. Anyone have suggestions for an e-mail address to contact? Thanks!!!

What do the 20 rooms look like? It seems like people prefer the 19's over the 18's. Are the 04 rooms the non-standard suites? Just asking as I am theoretically back there next week.

xx20 only exist on the lower floors - I think they're very similar to the xx18 on the upper floors. I think xx04 are regular rooms on the backside of the building - its been years since I've been in one of those. Those were my "regular rooms" before any status with Hyatt. Platinums usually got xx01 or xx06 (now studio suites). Diamonds usually got xx18 or xx19 (my "assigned" room was 2118).

Was told it was a corporate decision on the new furniture :eek:
I find it hard to believe as it is poorer in quality and design then furniture found in a Sheraton 4 Points.
The hotel is aware of the negative reactions so I know we are not alone in our opinions.
I have seen Starwood do some fairly respectable design choices over the years so I finde this surprising quite frankly.This takes remodeling to new lows in such an otherwise fine property.My perception is the hotel is now worth less per night as a result of purchasing the new couches.
IMO that is money very poorly spent

I don't have an email contact for you but I do have a contact name for you in the front office.I personally wouldn't contact the GM about room types or such unless my preferences special requests couldn't be met through the rooms division/front office management folks who handle all such requests on a day to day basis

Diamonds usually got xx18 or xx19 (my "assigned" room was 2118).

hey, i was in 2118 this past weekend. I like the X18 and the X19. The X19s seem to be the ones with the separate study room which I really like. The x18 is nice too though with the separate sofa/tv area.

RVD.

The X19s seem to be the ones with the separate study room which I really like. The x18 is nice too though with the separate sofa/tv area.

The xx19s on the lower floors are the Business Suites with the separate "office/study" room. On the higher floors, that's the bedroom while the lower floors' bedroom is a living room area.

I'm beginning to wonder if there were any people in the hotel that weren't Flyertalkers this last weekend :D

Checked in this past weekend (Saturday) and was in room 1506. Nice studio suite with a huge tv. It was a shame that they didn't have high def channels, though...

The staff was truly fantastic. I can't remember the last time Starwood hotel staff blew me away.

I decided on the spur of the moment to rent a convertible and drive out to wine country. I checked in, mentioned my idea to the concierge (she was AMAZING!), and she said she had some ideas. I showered, changed, and was back down 15 minutes later, and she had a map all ready for me to go. She had even called a concierge friend out in Healdsburg to ask her for suggestions. Everything was spot on and exactly what I was looking for.

My only negative was the $49 for parking! What is up with that!? SFO surely ain't Manhattan! Considering I got a great rate, the parking cost about half of what my room did.

WOW-talk about your six degrees of seperation :D
I was in the lobby when you were talking to the concierge about the rental car!
I know the folks staying in 1918,2018-and now learn a FTer was in 2118 :D

As to the parking-it is expensive in all hotels in SF to park,always has been.
There are some less expensive alternatives discussed on FT-a search will reveal all :D

Was there anyone else in the hotel who weren't FTers this past weekend?? :D

I'll ask around this coming weekend. :D

dh

WOW-talk about your six degrees of seperation :D
I was in the lobby when you were talking to the concierge about the rental car!
I know the folks staying in 1918,2018-and now learn a FTer was in 2118 :D

As to the parking-it is expensive in all hotels in SF to park,always has been.
There are some less expensive alternatives discussed on FT-a search will reveal all :D

Too small a world. I don't mind paying the parking; I just found it worthy of note that it cost about half as much as my room. :)

If you are back there, be sure to ask that concierge for tips. she really is great, and I dropped a note to the GM when I checked out to compliment her.

WOW-talk about your six degrees of seperation :D
I was in the lobby when you were talking to the concierge about the rental car!
I know the folks staying in 1918,2018-and now learn a FTer was in 2118 :D

As to the parking-it is expensive in all hotels in SF to park,always has been.
There are some less expensive alternatives discussed on FT-a search will reveal all :D

lol, yup i was in 2118. my stays get confused in my mind but i think it was 2 weeks ago (but could have been this past weekend) when i was in 2118 (the first time they booked me in the same room on back to back stays here 2 weeks apart).

anyway a group of people came to my room and tried to open the door for about 5 minutes before they realized that they were on another floor. I was going to open the door and say something but I figured that they would eventually figure it out. I also thought it might freak them out if I open the door all of a sudden. this was at around midnight.

it looks like the whole place was full with FTers last weekend.

Rock

I know the folks staying in 1918,2018-and now learn a FTer was in 2118 :DHey don't forget 1120! :D

Nice hotel, grateful for a xx18 suite, but a little disappointed with 2 small bottles of water and cheap-o Bath & Body Works soaps. I had to request mouthwash. I'd stay again as staff did seem very well trained and thoughtful. Area is very quiet on weekends, but still a good location with a very short walk to the Ferry Plaza Bldg, One Embarcadero, etc.

Glad you said it first. Bath and Body works is, IMHO, a perceptably lower quality product than Le Meridien. I would expect that brand at four points.

BTW, I say 'perceptably' since I'm not entirely confident that the B&B works stuff isn't made in the same factory as Bulgari :D

I'll ask around this coming weekend. :D

dh

Good chance you'll run into a few. ;)

I will be staying in this hotel later in the month as part of a group of 4. We have reservations for a "Luxury Suite" (xx18 or xx19, I presume) and an "Executive Room" with two double beds.

Does anyone who has experience with the suites know if any might connect to a second room to turn the room into a two-bedroom suite?

Thanks.

I will be staying in this hotel later in the month as part of a group of 4. We have reservations for a "Luxury Suite" (xx18 or xx19, I presume) and an "Executive Room" with two double beds.

Does anyone who has experience with the suites know if any might connect to a second room to turn the room into a two-bedroom suite?

xx19 won't have any connecting second room since one side is an emergency exit stairwell and the other side is the bathroom of xx18.

I don't think that any of the xx18 have any connection either. At any rate, the room next to xx18 is probably the smallest in the hotel so won't have 2 beds.

From room 2203 you can hear the faint background noise of the elevator. I heard this noise the first night and couldn't figure it out. Sounded like someone was rolling a food service cart near a meeting room. The 2nd night, I figured it out (since the room was behind the elevator).

So for those of you with no status, you better watch out. :p

I will be staying in this hotel later in the month as part of a group of 4. We have reservations for a "Luxury Suite" (xx18 or xx19, I presume) and an "Executive Room" with two double beds.

Does anyone who has experience with the suites know if any might connect to a second room to turn the room into a two-bedroom suite?

Thanks.

I stayed in Suite 1718 and the living room connected to room 1716, but I don' think that was a suite. But room 1718 and 1719 had a set of double doors before you went to each room. If you closed the doors the two room would be connected and the double doors also had electronic locks too.

The only negative I remember was the sad looking Walmart style newly replaced couches.The old couches were clearly more upscale and comfortable.Wow what a waste of precious remodeling $$$$$!!:eek:.


Agree 100% with the Walmart-syle furniture, and not all that comfortable, either. Tired to talk my better half into staying here for 3 nights this coming May, but the lack of comfortable furniture (compared to those nice sofas from the PH days) was a turn-off for him after our last visit. Although I agree, I still stay here when in town solo. I just love too many other features of the hotel to let the furniture thing send me looking for lodging elsewhere.

Does anyone remember if the Park Grill stopped serving dinner under the Hyatt hat or did that cease with the LM takeover? Although we never had dinner there, I love the quiet ambiance of the Park Grill and always wished we had done so at least once. Breakfast service, however, remains excellent IMO under LM.

Our first Park Hyatt visit was in the $55 Priceline days following 9/11. Agree the bargins are back again in this sour economy. Recessions do have a few advantages!

I stayed at this hotel for 3 nights over Valentines Weekend. I got a great rate on Travelzoo and managed to get a studio suite. On check-in I was told that I had been given a room with a great view (room 1206) - boy was he right. I could see the Bay bridge, Coit Tower and many other sights - a truely wonderful view.
The hotel is in the financial district - which shuts down at the weekend. It was a short walk away from the ferry building which had a great vibe in the evening.
The hotel staff were very nice and the hotel itself is top class - my only comment would be that it is quiet at nights and the weekend. I thought the hotel would have a good restaurant to compensate but the only food available was a limited choice at the lobby bar. All very nice but I think I possibly expected more - I did not realise that the Park Grill was shut in the evenings.
Other than that I loved the hotel - and room service was quite and delicious!

While I was never a fan of the food at Park Grill - espcially in a foodie city like San Francisco - I'm quite shocked that a hotel of this caliber doesn't have a "real" restaurant operating.

Ok - a heads up for those that still have outstanding reservations from the last Travelzoo deal - I just noticed that my reservations made for $119 a night is now showing up as $144 a night in my SPG.com reservations.

Le Meridien San Francisco is currently subject to a labor dispute between workers seeking negotiations and the hotel management.

The workers started with bullhorn chants for two solid hours from 7am to 9am this past Saturday. Even from the 20th floor on the back side of the hotel from the entrance the noise was too loud to sleep through.

None of the other Starwood Hotels in San Francisco are part of the labor action and the hotel workers are asking guests to stay elsewhere in the city.

The workers started with bullhorn chants for two solid hours from 7am to 9am this past Saturday. Even from the 20th floor on the back side of the hotel from the entrance the noise was too loud to sleep through.
Sorry I missed seeing another FTer at this hotel this weekend!! ;)
I spent some of the two hours at the Farmer's Market at the Ferry Terminal just to escape the screeching unionizers. Couldnt have slept anyway.

I was on the 19th floor upgraded to a balcony suite and the noise was clearly very loud. I spoke to the desk as to why they couldn't simply charge them with distubing the peace, and was told to speak to the police sergeant outside.

I learned a few things: 1) There are 9 hotels in SF that are subject to this type of thing. 2) The protesters dont "generally" stay more than 30mins to 1hour. 3) So long as they: a) don't obstruct access to/from the hotel, b) don't use bullhorns with more than 10w of power, and c) don't intimidate persons then they fall within the law and cannot be told to move along.

It appears it is not the fault of the police but rather the ones who wrote a law which allows this sort of nonsense IMO. YOUR right to free speech ends where other's right to free "sleep" begins. Oh well - be warned if you have a weekend stay coming up at LM SF.
Other than that I had a great stay!! :D
Dave

The workers started with bullhorn chants for two solid hours from 7am to 9am this past Saturday. Even from the 20th floor on the back side of the hotel from the entrance the noise was too loud to sleep through.

We almost stayed there, but thanks to the *W weekend promotion was at the St Regis instead.

Le Meridien San Francisco is currently subject to a labor dispute between workers seeking negotiations and the hotel management.



I spent some of the two hours at the Farmer's Market at the Ferry Terminal just to escape the screeching unionizers.


Will you be posting to the compensation thread? :D

Le Meridien San Francisco is currently subject to a labor dispute between workers seeking negotiations and the hotel management.

The workers started with bullhorn chants for two solid hours from 7am to 9am this past Saturday. Even from the 20th floor on the back side of the hotel from the entrance the noise was too loud to sleep through.

None of the other Starwood Hotels in San Francisco are part of the labor action and the hotel workers are asking guests to stay elsewhere in the city.

Bumping this up to see if this issue continues at this property. Has anyone stayed here in the past few days? I have a stay here next week and might consider moving. . .

Bumping this up to see if this issue continues at this property. Has anyone stayed here in the past few days? I have a stay here next week and might consider moving. . .

I was there on the weekend of 5/25 when the protesters were there. They were very loud and belligerent and I was able to hear them on the 19th floor but at least for me it wasn't loud enough to wake me up from sleeping. I did get up at 7:30 though on my own.

I went down there to go across the street for a cup of coffee and they were harassing me for staying at the hotel. It was a bit early in the morning and I was slightly cranky when they asked me to take a flyer to support their cause. I flat out told them "I don't support your cause. Unions are Un-American. If you don't like the labor conditions, don't work here. It's 2009, not 1960."...and of course that just antagonized them some more.

I was also here this past weekend but there were no protesters. The lady at the front desk said that they are allowed to protest for 1 hour but they were there for 2 hours that day on Memorial Day weekend so it was causing a lot of trouble.

The protesters are from the union, they aren't even people who worked at the hotel.

IMO, I would not hold this against the property. These people are just out trying to cause trouble. I have no changed or cancelled any of my stays at this hotel and I stay here at least twice a month. Chances are high that you will not even run into them.

Rock.

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