Avoid the Pickwick Hotel in San Francisco. I stayed there two years ago. The front desk staff were rude, the room had a musty odor, and the window lock was broken, with signs of forced entry evident. (My room faced the inside "courtyard". The roof over the first floor facilities was immediately below the window.)

For inexpensive lodging in San Francisco, you might want to try Priceline. Limit your bid carefully. After a string of successes (Hyatt, Club Quarters, Chinatown Holiday Inn, each for $50-$55 a night), I went below 2.5 stars and got stuck at the Pickwick.

Another inexpensive option is the Central YMCA. [Don't knock it until you've tried it!] It's an old building on the edge of a not-so-great neighborhood, but the rooms are clean, safe, and comfortable. You receive access to a proper health club with full fitness equipment and a pool. Wireless Internet was installed throughout the building last year. A basic continental breakfast (muffin, fruit, coffee or juice) is provided. Nightly cost is about $60. Bathroom facilities are shared. Single, double, and triple rooms are available. People of all genders and faiths are welcome.

Whatever you do, skip the Pickwick!

Paul Marcelin-Sampson
Santa Cruz, California, USA