Hotel

InterContinental San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
The InterContinental San Francisco, San Francisco's newest luxury hotel in the vibrant South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood, is within easy walking distance of premium shopping areas, a diverse collection of trendy and upscale restaurants and bars, and a number of major tourist attractions such as Union Square, Chinatown and the Powell Street Cable Car Turnaround

The InterContinental's rooms are luxurious and elegantly appointed and have the latest high-tech amenities. The Intercontinental San Francisco features a 10-room spa offering exquisite treatments and signature experiences, an indoor heated lap-pool, and a fitness center.

Languages spoken by hotel staff are: Chinese, English, French, German, Spanish, and Tagalog.

A block of rooms has been reserved for the conference dates of May 3 - 6, 2009. The conference rate is $206 + tax per night and may be offered three days before and three days after the conference dates if rooms are available. A limited block of rooms are available at the government rate.

San Francisco

www.welcometosf.com

The city
San Francisco is one of the great cities of the world and by far the most interesting and intriguing. Located on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, the city is very compact, hilly, and scenic

The greatest thing about the city is the number of different neighborhoods that blend together to form the cohesive whole. Five minutes from the Transamerica Pyramid is Chinatown, and just beyond is North Beach, the ethnic Italian neighborhood. The Marina, Pacific Heights and the Embarcadero are just a few of the areas that are worth visiting. San Francisco's attractions are almost too numerous to mention but include Golden Gate Park, Chinatown, Japantown, Cliff House, and Twin Peaks.

San Francisco's food is also fantastic! A culinary center of the United States, the city excels at every type of cuisine, including the best vegetarian and local flavors.

Outside the city limits is Napa and the wine country to the north of Monterey to the south. Overall, San Francisco is a great place to spend a week - or longer!


The weather
Even in mid-July, sweaters or light coats are suggested. The wind coming off the Bay can be harsh, especially at the top of the taller hills or out by the water. The famous fog rolls in over the Golden Gate but dissipates leaving a blue sky on most summer days, but it can still be chilly, so dress warmly.


Getting around
Rental cars are not necessary within the city as its compact nature encourages walking from Market Street to the Wharf, allowing for stops along the way. Of course, the famous San Francisco Cable Car is another option. If you have a few days, buy one of the MUNI passes. The F-line steetcar is another good option, going from Market along the Embarcadero and finishing at the Wharf.