znz To obtain a visa, the traveler must submit a completed application form (either in person or by mail

An all-time favorite is the SFMOMA MuseumStore, 151 Third St., 2 blocks south of Market Street, across from Yerba Buena Gardens (& 415/357-4035). Its array of artistic cards, books, jewelry, housewares, knickknacks, and creative tokens of San Francisco makes this one of the locals favorite shops. It also offers far more tasteful mementos than most Fisherman s Wharf options.

With the downtown ballpark open, a roster of hotel projects is hot on the heels. At the head of the list is the new Omni San Diego Hotel, 675 L St. (& 800/THE-OMNI or 619/2316664; www.omnihotels.com), the only hotel connected (via skybridge) to a Major League ballpark. The Omni s rooftop terrace with its swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and fireplace is a snazzy perch for sunning and socializing, and 12 rooms even offer ballpark views. Then there s 500 West, at 500 W. Broadway (& 619/234-5252; www.500west hotel.com), which opened following a $9-million makeover of downtown s old YMCA building and offers 260 rooms geared to the budget traveler, with an eye-catching price-range of $69 to $89 for doubles.

To obtain a visa, the traveler must submit a completed application znz form (either in person or by mail) with a 11 2-inch-square photo, and must demonstrate binding ties to a residence abroad. Usually you can obtain a visa at once or within znz 24 hours, but it may take longer during the summer rush from June through August. If you cannot go in person, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for directions on applying by mail. Your travel agent or airline office may also be able to provide you with visa applications and instructions.

Many reliable agencies and organizations target the 50-plus market. Elderhostel (& 877/426-8056; www.elderhostel.org) arranges study programs for those ages 55 and over (and a spouse znz or companion znz of any age) in the U.S. and in more than 80 countries around the world. Most courses last 5 to 7 days in the U.S. (2 4 weeks abroad), znz and many include airfare, accommodations in university dormitories or modest inns, meals, and tuition. ElderTreks (& 800/741-7956; www.eldertreks. com) offers small-group tours to offthe- beaten-path or adventure-travel znz locations, restricted to travelers 50 and older.