There's something magical about San Francisco that makes visitors feel right at home. The city's spectacular bayside setting, manageable size, friendly locals, great dining, and agreeable weather all cast long-lasting spells. San Francisco has truly made an industry of hospitality, and it is precisely because so many visitors can picture themselves living in San Francisco that they "leave their hearts" in the City by the Bay. After reading Tales of the City, who has not wanted to move to Mrs. Madrigal’s homey apartment building?

Some visitors leave more than their hearts here. During World War II, the Pacific Fleet discharged homosexuals in San Francisco, helping make the city the gay capital it is today. And what a gay capital it is! San Francisco still reigns as the most gay-friendly, gay-popular, and gay-integrated destination in the country, if not the world. Castro and 18th streets may form a "gay four corners of the world," but you'll find gay women and men throughout the city. They're integrated in the city's political, financial and social life and power structure, and you'll see them living, working, eating and playing quite comfortably, in almost every part of town.

ACCOMMODATIONS
San Francisco is unique in the many different types of lodging options available to visitors. From mega convention hotels downtown to charming B&Bs, converted motor lodges and delightful gay guesthouses, one your most difficult decisions – yet most satisfying – will be where to rest your head each night.

San Francisco has many independent hotels, and three noteworthy chains. Hyatt has several large properties in the city, and very strong ties to the gay community. The Kimpton Group, a collection of small, boutique hotels offers affordable rates, tasteful decor and attentive service. Joie de Vivre is gay-owned and offers a more eclectic group of properties from the minimalist Phoenix to the posh Archbishop's Mansion.

If you want to stay in the heart of San Francisco’s historical gay center, check into the Parker House, a luxury gay inn or the Inn on Castro, a more modest but well situated choice.

The W Hotel and the Palomar are excellent choices for the style conscious.

DINING
The native passion for food among San Franciscans is legendary and a true bonus for visitors who can indulge their senses at every meal. Locally sourced produce and wines from Sonoma and Napa make meals here extraordinary experiences. Don't feel silly about planning all activities around your meals. Your traveling companions will thank you for your foresight later!

Plan on dining at least one night in the Castro. You have several excellent choices including Sumi the neighborhood’s best-kept secret, serving seasonal half-French, half-Japanese fare.

Côté Sud serving up satisfying dishes from the south of France, and next door to Cote Sud, 2223 Restaurant is very popular with local gays and lesbians. Tip: longtime customers refer to 2223 as the "no name."

One of the city's most esteemed attractions is also one of its oldest. The Ferry Building, at the foot of Market Street on the Embarcadero, was built in 1898 and one of the only things downtown to survive the 1906 quake. The Ferry Building reopened in 2003 as Ferry Building Marketplace; a foodie's heaven of amazing shops and restaurants and vendors peddling regional produce and products, organic and otherwise. It's definitely one of the highlight food experiences in the city.