The Adelaide (San Francisco)

It bills itself as "A quiet retreat in the heart of San Francisco." For the most part it is just that, indeed.

Set in a short dead end alleyway - apparently such passes for streets according to local topography - the Adelaide is a bit tricky to find if one doesn't follow the directions just right (Isadora Duncan Lane, named for a famed actress, does not appear on many maps!) An eclectic all-white staff offer very friendly service and maintain a clean, warm, professionally run hostel. Most appeared to vibe to the punk or hipster scene of which one will find oodles in S.F.

The hostel serves home-cooked meals every evening for a modest bill of $5! Bedrooms are fine. Beds include clean linen. Bathrooms are kept clean and stocked.

In the lobby are free computers plus another two in the lounge/reading room which is furnished with big comfortable contemporary couches and nicely framed photographs (of local artists, I imagine).

Bedrooms are fine. Beds include clean linen. Bathrooms are kept clean and stocked. I even spent a night in Alcatraz, one of two larger dorm rooms, and it, too, was fine. These bunks were fashioned like berths found in sleeping cars or ships with reading lamps and curtains for privacy. Downstair is the TV room which doubles as the commons/eating area. Great concept if everyone is watching the Super Bowl but, otherwise, the arrangement sucks for anyone keen on actually hearing the movie. The very large kitchen is also a plus. The hostel serves home-cooked meals every evening for a modest bill of $5.00.

People do not live nowadays. They get about ten percent out of life.
Isadora Duncan

One huge turn-off was the old lady owner who mumbles to herself most of the time and the two children who never tired of running and playing. No, lady, your children are not cute.

5 Isadora Duncan Lane (94102)
415.359.1915
www.adelaidehostel.com