Desmond Hotel

Poor
Traveller Type: Solo Traveler

Good
Traveller Type: Business Traveler
  : I know this place has gotten flak in other reviews, but it's truly a fantastic value. First of all, I made this reservation for the week of Dreamforce, a 170,000+ person conference every year -- you bet hotel prices can get crazy. For a Monday through Friday stay, I paid less than $500; most of my colleagues spent that PER NIGHT in San Francisco! How much time do you really spend in a hotel room during a conference anyway? Additionally, the staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating. Each day I had clean sheets, clean towels, and other amenities provided that I seriously didn't expect. Sure, the shared bathroom/showers took some getting used to, but I literally never had to wait for someone to finish up so I could use these facilities. The location is also hard to beat -- a half-mile walk to the Moscone Center. Unbelievable at this price! Also wanted to address a common criticism: The homeless people outside of the hotel. There's no denying that San Francisco has a serious homeless problem, and there are many homeless individuals that spend their time right outside of the hotel. That being said, I had no issues whatsoever. I'm a fairly small guy, alone, and I was able to stumble back to the hotel after 12 am by myself with problem. Others have reported being screamed at or aggressively panhandled by these individuals -- literally never happened to me. Of course, dressing below your means and keeping your eyes firmly forward always helps.
  : The noise from the surrounding area outside would carry on a bit late at times. I'm a pretty heavy sleeper so I didn't mind, but even I was woken up a few times by loud talking and music. Additionally, I would hear a loud thud from above every now and then -- not sure if this was due to tenants or other guests. I will also say that the hotel didn't have much in the way of hot water when I was there. The maximum temperature I could get out of the shower was a touch above lukewarm, and the staff didn't seem to have any solution to the issue. Not really a huge deal, but if you're particular about your showers, I'd keep this in mind.

Very Good
Traveller Type: Solo Traveler