TomTravel2

I rarely win anything. Although I have been very lucky in life I don’t seem to have much luck in games, gambling or contests. At many travel events travel agents put their cards in a bowl for gifts from suppliers with a winner being drawn from the bowl. I had never had my card drawn, nor did I have any expectation that this would occur in this lifetime. At this summer’s Virtuoso Travel Mart I opted to attend a lunch hosted by Mandarin Oriental Hotels. Judi and I usually pore over the schedule and counter program the events. If she wants to visit with Crystal Cruises I register for Oceania for example. This way we can share with one another any helpful tidbits we learn. I had several hotel companies to choose from on this particular slot. Since neither of us had personally experienced a Mandarin Oriental they were a perfect choice.

Towards the end of the excellent presentation they announced a prize drawing was imminent. Being confident I would not be drawn I decided it was an opportune time to get a head start at the buffet. As I put the finishing touches on my plate I heard a familiar name mentioned from the podium “Tom Lewis, Alliance Travel Partners.” With my track record I was at first convinced I was hearing things as I headed back to the table. As the presenter repeated my name I realized they were in fact talking about me, and I had won a stay at the Mandarin Oriental San Francisco! I am never one to turn down a free night at a luxury hotel so a trip was soon planned for January of 2010 with two members of my family. One had never been to the City by the Bay so a very touristy time was to be had by all.

I knew the reputation of Mandarin Oriental was one of modern Asian chic design, and pampering service. The Mandarin Oriental San Francisco did not disappoint on either count. I liked the look of this urban center luxury hotel. Everything is very up to date, but with just enough retro Asian touches to make it distinct from it’s many competitors in the commercial district of San Francisco. Red dragons, red carpet and red upholstery in the large lounge make a clear design statement. How apropos for a luxe lodging a short walk from historic Chinatown.

I have very few criticisms to offer about this hotel. I would stay here again for sure. I also would be much more inclined to opt for other MO properties in the future after experiencing this one in person. Despite having a very cool and ample lounge on the lobby level, and a lovely restaurant one floor up, there is not a great deal of public space in this hotel. The workout room is on the small side, and those who need a particular type of machine or a variety of every type might find this property lacking. The common areas are on the first 4 floors while the rooms begin on the 36th. This takes away from the unified feeling one might find at some other urban properties. The views from the rooms on the other hand are outstanding due to their lofty perch. My only other quibble is that there is a charge for Internet access. As anyone who follows me on Twitter can attest, this is one of my pet peeves in the luxury hotel business.

A foggy view of San Francisco and the terrace of one of the suites.

I loved being up in the clouds and fog during our stay in the City by the Bay. We were blessed with two rain free days at the beginning of our stay, and fog mixed with rain for the last two. Being a native of a desert city I always look forward to experiencing weather when I travel. I know that makes me unlike most people, but where I live there is an absence of anything one might refer to as weather 300 or so days of the year.

I am now a “Fan.” The spacious room offered views (as seen above) in two directions including a slice of the Bay Bridge and Treasure Island. The decor was modern with all the expected conveniences including a flat screen TV. All of furnishings were light wood which I found soothing and in keeping with the Asian flair.

The beds were firm and comfortable and the linens were high quality and attractive. One member of the party was recovering from a recent illness so we spent a good deal of time in the room. It was large enough to never feel crowded or cluttered despite several rounds of room service. There was a cozy and ample sitting area with a very cool high backed love seat we would have liked to take home.

The accent pieces and artwork were soothing and in keeping with the overall Asian theme.

The most enjoyable thing about this stay was the service. The management at the Mandarin Oriental San Francisco have done a great job in staffing and training. Throughout our stay little touches made the difference. On the rainy days the bell staff courteously and promptly offered umbrellas to all as we began our outings. A warm “welcome back” greeted us on arrival from the bell staff and desk staff. Check in and check out were a breeze with all of the details done to a tee.

We did not eat in the restaurant but instead opted to eat out two nights and in room for one. Room service was excellent with a broad menu to choose from. Service was prompt and always friendly. With our varied tastes we sampled a number of different items and all were to our liking. Upon returning from outings the room was always fresh and tidy. Of course, turn down was provided.

We were not sure how much we would be able to do with one of our party still feeling a bit off. I would usually have many things planned and arranged ahead of time on a trip like this. This time we played it by ear. This gave us many opportunities to call on the concierge staff. I cannot say enough about how excellent they did their job! At one point we had asked about reservations in Chinatown for seven. Within a few short moments the phone rang and “Your friend from downstairs!” informed us that an envelope had been delivered to our room. By the door we found the envelope with a nice personalized note, a reservation confirmation with the restaurant address and phone number, and a walking map to guide us there. This is just one example of how well we were taken care of by one of the best concierge teams I have had the pleasure of dealing with. All of their recommendations were excellent as well.

I will write about my very touristy visit to San Francisco soon…