Hotel picking, it turns out, is like dating—"you better shop around". On the third go-round, we've met our match: The Hotel Palomar.

With all the attractive qualities you have come to expect from a Kimpton Hotel (see our other partners in Salt Lake City, Silicon Valley, Cambridge, Chicago, Scottsdale, Aspen) and an urbane vitality and style that's so San Francisco (where food and comfort are a fine art), the Palomar has it all. And in the right spot: it's right off Union Square (and even closer to Nordstrom's—speaking of shopping). The Wharf is just a cable car away.

Beyond the fanciful rooms in bold colors (also featuring three phones, a copier/fax machine, data ports, Aveda bath products) you will find modern French cuisine and a fitness center (at an additional fee) to regain equilibrium.

There are also meeting rooms and a wonderful lobby to impress your guests.

We just may be finished with San Francisco dating and ready to settle down at the Palomar. Enjoy!

In keeping with the Kimpton Hotel Group's nationwide arrangement with us, the Hotel Palomar is being offered to Academic Ambassadors at their Best Available Rate (BAR) minus 10%. Click here to book online. Our code GBP0330 will appear in the Corporate ID field. Our savings will show up under their "Global Business Program".

You may visit their website at www.hotelpalomar.com.

3/22/07: I just got back from a whirlwind visit to SF and did stay at the fabulous Palomar. Looking for a change of pace in a quieter spot, I then checked out the Harbor Court Hotel in SF's business/waterfront district, the Embarcadero. I loved this place! Full of light and color, it is so fresh and sparkling. Many of the rooms have bay views. And though the rooms may be small-ish (though not cramped), the vista is expansive. Also, across the way is the newly renovated Ferry Building, a gourmet mecca.

I'm already plotting my return. Let me know what you think.

You can find it at www.harborcourthotel.com and book by clicking here. Our code GBP0330 will appear in the Corporate ID field. Our savings will show up under their "Global Business Program".