As far as the nautical theme, we have been to "swim with the dolphins" in Bahamas, Mexico and Orlando. Theres a place in the Quintana Roo near Tulum called Xcaret (100 minutes south of Cancun)that is like swimming in a salt water aquarium. Her father was in Belize for 10 years and we came down 3 times. Spearfishing (in 91) while snorkeling with a guide and another couple for lunch in the coral gardens in 20-30 ft of water with coral heads that looked like trees to the surface was the best. We had a couple grouper/snapper in a bag which my wife was holding and a nurse shark was sniffing up 10 ft behind for I dont know how long. She nugged me as we were rolling ahead to give me the bag. Good thing we were close to lunch. I tried to accomodate as I didnt want any kind of panic. Best lunch I ever had! Nuff said.

From the SF official visitor/tourist email reply:

There are several conventions around that timeframe. There are 20,000 people scheduled to come between 5/21-5/25/05 for a convention, and several ones inbetween.

Looks like we will spend the latter part in the city. Guess I wil have to drop her off in town with the luggage at the hotel, return the car at sfo and use bart etc. to get back. Maybe I can get Enterprise when they are picking someone up close by downtown.
Maybe 5/21-24 out of the city. Any worthwhile festivals? Tried to check and only see $100 fundraisers for this time.

I dont know.

Maybe a place on the sonoma beachside since we will have a car will be the best. Utilize the wine tasting bars. She likes pinot (lite whites) and I like shiraz so any suggestions would be nice.

Or what is the best TOTAL value on a room over bidding for travel on priceline w/ one that has nice comped sonoma wine tastings, with breakfast, close by?

That is the +$69 (per nite or more) question.


Thanks.