"How did it strike you on arrival?The W refers to itself as an electric hotel in the heart of San Francisco—and it's not kidding on either front. The location on Third Street in SOMA is great for anyone heading to the Moscone Center, the SFMOMA, or Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. And the ultra-modern decor lights up, from the black check-in desk that glows pink and purple to the light-up map of San Francisco above it, as well as the LED lights embedded in the bar. Geometric seating is topped with purple tie-dye-style throw pillows, an amorphous glass sculpture hangs above the entryway, and there's a photo booth by the front desk. It feels very young and energetic. What’s the crowd like?Thanks to its location by the Moscone Center, the W is great for conventioneers. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Room feature elements of gold and other metallic hints as part of the palette—a nod to the Gold Rush era, with colorful pops coming from graphic pillows and throws. The smallest rooms at the W start at 280 square feet, and suites go up to 700. The third level of rooms—the 300 square-foot Fabulous room, above both Wonderful and Spectacular—fills out its 300 square feet with cushioned love seats by windows, a writing desk and desk chair, colorful accents, and a mod coffee table. High rollers can go all in on the Extreme Wow suite, a 900 square-foot space with city views, two bathrooms, a butler's pantry, and an optional second bedroom. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The rooms feature pillow-top mattresses with 350 thread count linens, goose-down duvets, and a menu of pillows. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?All hotels should come with multi-device charging stations. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.MOMO body products in the shower and bathtub give a nod to the in-hotel Bliss Spa. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?The internet cost is included in the daily $35 destination fee, which also includes other perks like food credits and SFMOMA tickets. Room service: Worth it?In-room diners can snag favorites like cheeseburgers ($21) or chicken wings ($18) between 5 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. and breakfast from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The Fit, an 1,875 square-foot gym, is something to see. Machines are circled up under a massive skylight, while a central seating area is lit by rings of colored fixtures, and the tunes are piped in. The vibe is sort of psychedelic jukebox. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?If you're a traditionalist, the W is probably a bit too off-the-wall for you. But younger guests who like a funky vibe and a great location will be right at home. Bottom line: worth it, and why?This one is all about taste. If you're into a clubby vibe, go for it." - Elise Craig
