"Housed in a 1930 Julia Morgan–designed building next to the UC Berkeley campus, this six-story former women’s club evokes a bygone era with Persian rugs over wood floors and 39 pastel-hued rooms (many without TVs). The centerpiece is an art-deco 25- by 75-foot swimming pool heated to about 82°F, with lanes marked by small patterned tiles featuring a flower motif rather than plastic lane lines; guests often find it uncrowded and transportive. Overnight stays include access to the pool, yoga classes, and an elegant dining room serving a complimentary breakfast." - Pat Tompkins