Blondie said:
We just stayed there last week.
There's no bookstore that I'm aware of. I think there was a plan to put a coffee shop/book store off the rotunda lobby, but it never happened. Put it this way, if it's there, I sure has heck can't find it!
LOL...thanks Blondie, on clarifying this one! A book/coffee shop is still "slated" to be placed in a present shop off the lobby (I'm not sure whether this shop intends to remain, and just add coffee--or vacate, and add the bookstore, etc.?). It was not clear from the CM in the main office, as they were also unsure.
I would LOVE a bookstore and coffee shop there as well, and believe it would be much more beneficial than a couple of the present shops surrounding the rotunda lobby.
We just returned from a long & relaxing weekend (4 eves) at the beautiful St. Francis (A Starwood property) in San Francisco. We met DD at the SFO after she flew in from London, and returned to the hotel together. We have been frequenting this property for more than 20 years, long before Starwood came along. It's actually about 102 years young, and has tons of lore, legends and history.
http://www.westinstfrancis.com/default2.asp?sID=Hist An assassination attempt on President Ford just outside an entrance left a bullet mark in the building. It's been featured more than once on the Travel channel.
Al Jolson died in the suite we enjoy, as well as a woman associated with the old classic silent film star Fatty Arbuckle (he was acquitted of her murder). Only a few things (noises) have happened in there. But, I expect a property more than a century old, in a city which moves and trembles---to have "some" noises~! LOL. It's a lovely place, and one some DISers have visited. I know Steve (POLY) has been there. They even "wash" coins upon request at the front desk, hailing back to the ladies wearing white gloves (to avoid soiling with dirty coins). The fresh-steamed crab off the pier (39) is hard to top! Great Dining, Spa and shopping. If you're ever in the City by the Bay, be sure to stop in the St. Francis for a "look-see" if not a stay.
Like most hotels, during the Christmas season, it's truly beautiful.
goofy4tink~I am happy to read you enjoyed your stay at the Dolphin! I too, believe the services are above-par, and on many levels above Disney service too.
Thanks for sharing your experience. Sounds as if you are a convert now too!
Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season. We are heading to
Disneyland next week, should be FUN!! Love the haunted mansion all decorated in the "nightmare before christmas" for the season! ^_^ And...it SNOWS on main street USA too.
It will be our 10 year anniversary, and I made sure to mention that to the friendly gal who was taking my reservation. She confirmed a king bed for me, but also noted on the reservation that if a complimentary upgrade became available, that the guests (DH and I) would like to have the option of switching to double beds in order to get the upgrade. I also asked for an upper floor.
Congratulations! That is a GREAT rate! 
Make sure you write your spg # down and keep in a safe place - I've been a member for 3 years now and still haven't received a card! 
I have a question, though. I read somewhere that there is a bookstore at the Dolphin, and being a bookworm this is of great interest to me. Is there a bookstore and where is it?
