South of Market Area can bring a whole myriad of association in the mind of any San Franciscan but "affordable and clean eco-friendly hotels" might not make it to the list. However, the latest Joie de Vivre establishment sharply called "the Good Hotel" paints this shady and gloomy area in fresh green colors.
Stylish and hip, the Good Hotel welcomes you with photo booth pictures of its guests (a close observation revealed a couple of faces I wouldn't like to meet in a dark alley), a handy map of the city, a set of bicycles available for rent and a parking lot which is free for hybrids only, so driving an eco-unfriendly car will cost its owner 20 dollars a night. Partnership with One Brick, an organization supporting local non-profits represents the philanthropic aspect of the hotel with voluntary donations to the You Can Make a Difference program. On top of that visitors are encouraged to learn about other donations and ways of contributing to the community including the Carbon Offset and One Laptop Per Child programs. Every object and surface in this two-star hotel fits the state-of-the-art green standards: bed frames are made out of reclaimed wood, old-fashioned fans take care of air conditioning and the stylish lamps decorating each room used to be water bottles. Bathrooms are equipped with impressive Sink Positive toilets which effectively save water and provide endless opportunities for men who enjoy combining certain monotonous morning procedures.
Numerous other small touches add to the overall experience. Books left by previous visitors are carefully stacked under the bed, snowball-shaped pillows (probably cool on each side) and glow-in-the-dark "good night" panels will bring a smile to the saddest of faces. After a peaceful repose you can go downstairs for a slice of organic Good Pizza. Each room is equipped with a large flat-screen TV, an iPod docking station, free Wi-Fi and lots of other pleasant features.
Though the Good Hotel enormously stands out among nearby residencies and adds a palette of vibrant and welcoming tones to the area, SOMA is hardly the most attractive part of the city. Still, downtown and Financial District are within walking distance, while Civic Centre BART and Muni stations are just one block from the hotel, making it an affordable and satisfying solution if you don't mind staying in a bit seedy neighborhood.
For NOVO magazine.