Despite its central location directly on the main thoroughfare of San Francisco and proximity to conference central Moscone Center, the hustle and bustle of the city below stays down there as the Four Seasons is located on the top 12 floors of a high-rise that prides itself for serene service.  Of course there are the Frette linens, incredible pillow top beds and L’Occitane luxuries.   Located within its hallowed halls are Seasons, a well regarded fine dining experience and best of all, a stay here will include entry into Sports Club/LA, a haven for body-conscious celebs and elite San Franciscans.

Known for its hot spot hotel bar, The Redwood Room, Clift Hotel is the chicest place to stay in town.  Ian Schrager has left his mark in SF.   It’s located in Union Square, a mere 3 blocks away from Barney’s or Saks Fifth Avenue, just in case if you need to pick up a pair of Louboutins or a Lanvin sports jacket before hitting the only bar in town where people dress impeccably.  The rooms are outfitted with Korres toiletries and minimalist, orange and purple accented furniture.  The lovely lilac cashmere throw keeps the setting from getting too cold and austere.

The Fairmount is the perennial classic benchmark of a five star hotel.  Cable cars jingle by, steep hills abound, and it’s grand flagged entryway at the top of Nob Hill are just what discerning people interested in a true San Francisco experience look for.  The hotel and rooms are traditionally decorated:  think stuffed armchairs, oak and mellow golden colour schemes.   The Tonga Room has the best MaiTai in the city and one could easily imagine Old Blue Eyes hanging out here.  When he first performed I left my heart in San Francisco, this is where he stayed.

A stunning skyline view of the city, the Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and impeccable service keep the Mandarin Oriental at the top of its game.  The financial district location make it a premier place for business travelers with generous expense budgets to stay.  The Silks restaurant inside delivers excellent Asian fusion cuisine and the rooms are decorated in a Chinoise style with dark woods.  Complimentary tea and almond cookies during the turn down really set the atmosphere.

Tucked away, 2 minutes across the Golden Gate Bridge in its National Park, Cavallo Point has that rustic but nonetheless luxurious touch that is central to San Francisco style.  Styled in low-level historical or green buildings, it’s more of a resort than anything.  They offer a Michelin starred restaurant, Murray’s Circle, and it’s the perfect place to get that mix of outdoor but still be within 10 minutes of the City.  Your day will start with a picturesque view of the fog rolling into San Francisco.  For those active-athletic-types, get on a bicycle and go across the Golden Gate bridge to enjoy the bustle of Fisherman's Wharf but come back to pastoral splendor at night.