In San Francisco for business, I couldn't have been happier with this hotel.
The Westin announces itself well before you get to it as it towers above Union Square. From the outside, the front building of the hotel - which is the original dating back to 1904 - looks pretty majestic, followed by an even larger tower behind it, where the newer rooms are.
The lobby has more than a touch of the history that this hotel has been through, including everything from old-world chandeliers to glass case displays of old hotel restaurant menus. Adjacent to the front lobby is a much more modern and sleek sitting area featuring the entrance to an equally modern and sleek restaurant - Michael Mina - which looked like a place to be seen. All told, you feel like you're in a place that's both old San Francisco and hip.
My room was maybe a touch nicer than the standard Westin I normally stay in, with slightly sharper and more modern fixtures and design, a very attractive bathroom and shower, and a little larger than I usually get.
I liked the location in that it's literally in the heart of Union Square, and is near to a number of restaurants and areas you're likely to want to see. It isn't, however, right next to some of the other nice areas to hang out in - Russian Hill, North Beach, or the water etc - so if you're looking for those areas specifically, this may not be your choice. But Union Square has plenty to offer itself.
All in all, I'd certainly stay here again, and I'd recommend it for both couples and for business.
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