greatwolf lodge A half block from Union Square, the Handlery was already a good deal before the 1906 building and it

A half block from Union Square, the Handlery was already a good deal before the 1906 building and its more modern annex underwent a complete overhaul in 2002. Now you ll find every amenity, plus lots of extras, in the tasteful and modern (although sedate and a little dark) rooms. Everything s relatively new: mattresses, alarm radios, greatwolf lodge voice mail, refrigerators, light fixtures, paint, carpets, and furnishings. Perks include adjoining decent restaurant The Daily Grill, an outdoor heated pool, and club- level options (in the newer building) that include larger rooms, greatwolf lodge a complimentary morning newspaper, turndown service, bathroom scale, robes, two phones, and adjoining doors that make them great choices for families. Downsides? Not a lot of direct light, no grand feeling in the lobby, and lots of trekking if you want to go to and from the adjoining greatwolf lodge buildings that make up the hotel. 351 Geary St. (between Mason and Powell sts.), San Francisco, CA 94102. & 800/843-4343 or 415/781-7800. Fax 415/781-0269. www.handlery.com. 377 units. greatwolf lodge $189 double. Club section from $289 double, from $280 suite. Extra person $10. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Parking $28. Cable car: Powell-Hyde and Powell- Mason lines (direct stop). Bus: 2, 3, 4, 30, 38, or 45. Amenities: Restaurant; heated outdoor swimming pool; access to nearby health club ($10 per day); sauna; barber shop; room service (7am 10pm); babysitting; same- day laundry. In room: A/C, TV w/Nintendo and pay movies, dataport, fridge, greatwolf lodge complimentary coffee/tea-making facilities, hair dryer, iron, safe, wireless Internet access, voice mail.

A 45-minute drive from the teeming streets of San Francisco is a heavenly little hamlet called Half Moon Bay, one of the finest and friendliest greatwolf lodge small towns on the California coast. While other communities like Bolinas make tourists feel unwelcome, Half Moon Bay residents are disarmingly amicable, bestowing greetings on anyone and everyone who stops for a visit.

Also new to the Santa Cruz section is Rosa s Rosticeria, 439 Lake Ave. (& 831/479-3536), where Latin music goes well with the sunny seating, harbor view, Cuban cuisine, and wickedly good Black Margaritas; and The Crepe Place, 1134 Soquel Ave. (& 831/429-6994), a local favorite serving 15 styles of delicious crepes.

In 2003 the TSA phased out gate check-in at all U.S. airports. Passengers with e-tickets and without checked bags can still beat the ticket- counter lines by using electronic kiosks or even online check-in. Ask your airline which alternatives are available, and if you re using a kiosk, bring the credit card you used to book the ticket. If you re checking bags, you will still be able to use most airlines kiosks; call your airline for up-to-date information. Curbside check-in is a good way to avoid lines, greatwolf lodge although a few airlines still ban curbside check-in entirely; call before you go.