We weren't looking forward to this very much. After a couple of weeks touring fantastic open country going back to a city wasn't what we really wanted.

The drive up from Carmel wasn't brilliant either. A few nice spots, and then a long drive in through the suburbs. Navigation was difficult, and the last few miles in the rush hour were a bit stressful.

The last bit to our motel was down an incredibly steep hill, where we had to stop at each crossroads. We'd been on roller coasters that were less scary. It was the type of road where the famous bit from Bullitt was filmed.

We were staying at the Days Inn at the western end of Lombard Street. Not glamourous, but serviceable and with free parking (a bonus in San Francisco). It's changed ownership since we stayed, and has had some dreadful reviews, but it was OK when we were there.

At first we thought that the location wasn't very good, but then found out that one block away, on Chestnut Street, there were loads of really good restaurants of all types. Also on Chestnut there were frequent buses to the city centre.

We soon realised that the city was a great place with lots to see and do, and we really enjoyed our few days.