Originally Posted by
MDtR-Chicago
There may not be a difference in actual crime incidence but I have definitely observed a difference in how much aggressive panhandling happens across those 6-12 blocks. It's very different to step out of Le Meridien in a quiet part of downtown, mostly office buildings and some residential, than to step out into the thick of the tourist and panhandler population at a location like Park Central.
I think it's reasonable to factor that somewhere into the equation, when paying the ridiculous prices SF hotels ask.
Anecdotal stories of panhandling or other "incidents" are what perpetuates the prejudices against people in the first place. Personal anecdotes, while having an impact on us, certainly, do not necessarily reflect the reality of a group at large. I'd encourage you to not draw conclusions about an entire population because of those personal anecdotes.
Sorry, but panhandling can and does happen throughout the city--as it does most major US cities now. One hotel over another is no prescription for its relief. Nor is panhandling in any way a violent crime that tourists or business travelers need concern themselves about. Being annoyed by people isn't dangerous.
And all SF hotels have much higher rates than would be found in most cities. And panhandling isn't inversely proportional to the rates charged. So your suggestion is unwise.