Despite its name, the hotel is located on the East Bay side and not the San Francisco side of the Bay Bridge. Depending on traffic, it is only 10 minutes to the city and about 20 minutes to Walnut Creek, an upscale dining and eating town center in the outer suburbs. That said, there is fewer but equally upscale choices for dining and shopping in the immediate neighborhood. There are two huge, modern movie theaters within minutes, and a grocery store across the street for snacks, wine, etc. It is 20 minutes and the closest SPG property to Oakland Airport, and about 25 minutes to SFO, depending on highway and bridge traffic.
Based on two stays within a ten day period, I found the staff to be consistently warm, friendly, and hospitable, including the overnight clerk when my flight got me in late at 1am. On the phone, check-in, check-out: everyone was helpful and borderline perky. My status was not only acknowledged but was also appreciated at both check-in's although there was no upgrade. (I'm not certain they even have anything into which you can be upgraded but don\'t know for sure.)
The property itself is obviously old. Tiny bathrooms, small closets, sinks outside the bathroom, and a loud HVAC system (although it was very strong and one of the rare hotels that lets you set the temp below 65). Picture gaps under the door and three scrappy towels on a metal rack over the toilet. Furnishings, however, were quite new and comfortable, including the new bedding. There was free internet in the room (not wireless) and a small business center with two high-speed computers and free use of a printer off the lobby. Both times I had a room with a balcony overlooking the highway and then the SF bay, with a single chair if I wanted to sit outside.
I did not avail myself of any food and beverage services.
As long as you didn't plan to spend much time in your room, the place is solidly basic and clean, in an excellent and convenient location, and often has rates half of those at SPG properties in the city. The staff will surely make you feel welcome and appreciated.
Review submitted by aweller.
Posted at October 27, 2007 8:32 AM